Buying a 318ti. Help! Engine Stuff...
 

So I'm thinking about buying a '95 318ti that has the M42 1.8L engine. I've read that the M44 supposedly had all new / highly refined engine components to go along with the slight size increase. I'm wondering if it's worth holding out for one with an M44, or will this M42 work just fine. Also, this '95 that I've found has not had the timing belt replaced, ever, and it has 120k miles. Is this something to be concerned about, or should I just not worry about it and have the belt replaced when I get it? I've also read that the "timing case profile gasket" in the M42 fails between 40-80k miles, and should be replaced before this happens because it can lead to serious head overheating. Any truth to this? The seller of the vehicle is only looking for $5000, so it seems like a good deal even if I do have to drop some cash on repairs right away (i.e. timing belt...).

Thank you in advance for any help.

I don't think it will be that noticable between a M42 and M44 engine.
The M44 has a timing chain so I think the M42 also has a chain.
The profile issue was already fixed by the time the ti was released.

Personally I like the styling better of the Sport starting in 1996 or a 1995 Clubsport.
The Sport had the M-technic trim like a M3.

I have a 42 engine that seems just fine. Hard to know what the 44 engine might do better?

Great! Does anyone know for certain if the M42 engine has a timing belt or is it indeed a chain? Assuming it is a timing chain, how often do these need to be replaced?

Thanks again

The profile gasket is not an issue with the M42 in the 318ti. That was fixed in earlier 318s. At 120k mi I'd say it's about due for a timing chain (not a belt) replacement. If not, let's just say at that mileage you could start seeing symptoms at any time. The parts for a complete chain and guide rework are $195, but the labor is several hundred at any shop you take it to.

we have a customer with 289,000 miles on a 318is and it has never had any problems w/ the motor

You may never have to replace the chain. Most anecdotes I hear are either never having a problem, or having to replace it between 100 and 150k miles. At the unlucky end of the spectrum, mine is starting to go at 70k miles.

Unless the timing chain is making a noise, I wouldn't worry about it.

i thinks that the m42 is a much better engine. i think it has all fordged rod and crank unlike the m44. well thats what i heard anyways. and forged is good for and SC or Turbo. or even moded NA