Another boring M52 swap

[TeamDFL]

I'm going to do this backwards. I have all the parts for a swap but no car yet.

I wanted a new ti way back in 95 but it never worked out. I actively looked for one around 2001 but a couple crappy BMW dealers drove me towards E30s instead. Years and many BMWs later, I'm thinking about finding one again to use as a nice weather commuter and part time autocross/track car.

The fun part is the 1996 328is I have in the driveway right now. It is complete and running well except for a bad air pump. I commuted in it for 3 years and occasionally hit the track with it but is sat for most of the last year. The interior is falling apart (typical E36 issues) and it is filthy inside and out but that stuff is not important for an engine swap.

So, I'm looking for a very clean OBD2 ti this summer.

[TeamDFL]

Notes to self

Stuff from 328is that will not work in a ti:
3.23 LS diff from M3, will freshen up a 3.25LS in the garage from an E28
Rear suspension
Exhaust/cat

Fun parts parts that will transfer:
strut tower brace
x brace
17x8 track wheels with R comps
various 16" and 17" street wheels and tires
UUC flywheel w/ Sachs E34 M5 clutch
Shifter w/ DSSR
front suspension



Decisions to make
Model year - Do I look for a 1995 and convert my M52 to OBD1? This adds cost (M50 ECU, mainfold, etc.) but also adds power. Do I really need more power? Probably not because I'm used to underpowered track cars. A stock M52B28 in a ti will be a rocket compared to my usual track sleds. The simpler/cheaper route is a 1996 318ti. Who am I kidding? Everyone wants more power. In reality, a stock drivetrain makes troubleshooting easier and means I can drop the car off at the local indie shop if I'm tight on time. A bastardized OBD1 M52 makes it difficult to find a capable tech near Kershaw or Danville.
Yes, I know, first world problems.

Exhaust - Headers are an easier option if I convert to OBD1 but mean more money and more fab work.

Brakes - This can wait until the powertrain is in place and working. I'll throw on E46 fronts and Z3 rears including bearings/hubs/trailing arms if needed.

Suspension - I have no idea what I will do. The car will receive whatever I have lying around until I pick proper parts, probably AST 4150s.