E36 subframe issues/help

[BMRBOI 8]

Morning guys,

Have a bit of a dilemma; my e36 shell is not looking to good (1992 325i 4dr)

Ive had issues with the rear subframe for some time now, have done extensive work on repairing and reinforcing it as it tore subframe mounts out a few years back.

Ive been getting knocking at the rear end still and although the subframe mounts are solid the whole subframe floor seems to be causing the knocking (thought it was the subframe bushes).

I am now looking at options:

I have always been after a coupe, was thinking of finding a 1992 325i coupe and transferring everything onto it. They don’t seem that easy to come by at a good price.

If I got hold of a 1993+ 325i coupe (cheaper) I assume everything will transfer over?

How about the non-vanos engine? Can I transfer the engine, loom and ecu over into a vanos car? Mine never had EWS also, will this be an issue? Or should i use the vanos engine?

Any other options? Build attached below

325i.

[BM WORLD 1283]

yes you can swap the non vanos into a vanos car .

most early vanos 325i dont have ews anyway.

worst case is you bypass the starter wires that go though the ews box

might be able to help with coupe or sedan shell , or a subframe etc etc

thanks brent

[BMRBOI 8]

Is it plug and play Brent? Just swap loom, ecu and engine?

Only reason i want to use the non-vanos is ive replaced all gaskets etc plus the non-vanos ecu i have is from a manual car not an auto.

Another thought was to wreak the car, reckon itl be worth much parting it out? Kind of defeats the purpose of the last 12 months.

It would be good if you can keep an eye open on the shell (even rolling shell would be better), it needs to have good paint/ no rust and goodish interior. Thanks

yes you can swap the non vanos into a vanos car .

most early vanos 325i dont have ews anyway.

worst case is you bypass the starter wires that go though the ews box

might be able to help with coupe or sedan shell , or a subframe etc etc

thanks brent