So, I bought an E36

[Palmetto]

This was owned by a friend. It failed its MOT, needing some welding to the inner wing/strut, plus a couple of other simple things. The jacking points are quite solid, and the arches aren't bad. As its a 316i (with drum brakes) and a compact, she thought no one would want it and it would be scrapped. I said I'd have it and got it for less than scrap value.

She was the second owner and it's got 95k on the clock. The previous owner was an old lady who put 45k on in the 14 years she owned it.

I don't know what my plans are yet. I want to put discs on the rear and am undecided about the engine. Another friend says turbo a M52B28. I need to look into it a bit more.

 

[Scooblitz]

Looks half decent.

These compacts are getting popular for drifters and also track cars as well. Value is going up considerably. Especially since you couldn't give them away 4 years ago.

Bought some z3 bits from a guy who deals in e36 compacts for drifting. Had loads of them. He put in a 325tds engine in his. Its meant to be very very fast with loads of torque.

 

[Palmetto]

She told me about the BMW Compact race series, and was considering turning it into a race car herself. I've noticed more people singing their praises. I think they were overlooked because they look a bit odd from the side, which kept the prices low, but I've always thought they look ok. The E46 compact, now that is ugly.

When I asked my wife (who has an E36 cabrio) what to do with it, she said put a cage in. I'm wanting a sleeper. Big engine, but looks stock.

 

[Ianmc]

When I asked my wife (who has an E36 cabrio)

So does my wife, fine cars! Just bought a hardtop for it today (collect tomorrow) as car lives outside.

 

[Palmetto]

Nice. Laurens is currently at the paint shop after undergoing major surgery.

 

[Ianmc]

Also had rear wheel arches (inner and outer) replaced this year @Palmetto . The body shop had to fabricate the inners as seemingly nla.
Worth it though; good 4 seat Z!!

 

[Ianmc]

Just bought a hardtop for it today (collect tomorrow) as car lives outside.

Having undertaken a 140 mile trip this morning to collect the hardtop, have returned with the roof down!!
The item was listed for an E36 but, on arrival, it transpires that it is off an E46!! Obviously won't fit.
The search for a E36 hardtop continues; if anyone can offer a lead that would be most decent! Not too bothered about colour, as will likely need to paint, unless very lucky.

 

[Palmetto]

Now that is a pain in the arse.

 

[Scooblitz]

Having undertaken a 140 mile trip this morning to collect the hardtop, have returned with the roof down!!
The item was listed for an E36 but, on arrival, it transpires that it is off an E46!! Obviously won't fit.
The search for a E36 hardtop continues; if anyone can offer a lead that would be most decent! Not too bothered about colour, as will likely need to paint, unless very lucky.

I'd have been furious.

 

[Ianmc]

I'd have been furious.

Yes, but what can be done. Perhaps it's an age thing, but such is life, it wasn't done intentionally. No point in fussing about something you can't control or influence I think.
Good news is that I have found an E36 one for a fair price this afternoon; only snag is its a 400 mile round trip this time. Will confirm before setting off though!
Happy days!!

 

[Palmetto]

Me and a couple of friends created a YouTube channel for our projects. I've just uploaded the first video.

 

[AntStark]

Me and a couple of friends created a YouTube channel for our projects. I've just uploaded the first video.

Love Borders ! …oh and what a bargain

 

[Palmetto]

Matt, who owns the yard, always has a box or two on hand. We decided to plug them in every video, even though they don't sponsor us.

And yeah, it was a bargain. She was offered more in scrap but let it go to me cheap because I helped her husband with a gearbox swap on his old Mk2 Escort and refused payment.

 

[t-tony]

Matt, who owns the yard, always has a box or two on hand. We decided to plug them in every video, even though they don't sponsor us.

And yeah, it was a bargain. She was offered more in scrap but let it go to me cheap because I helped her husband with a gearbox swap on his old Mk2 Escort and refused payment.

Kharma in action. That’s what me and Shirl call “ Paying it forwards”

Tony.