Trans-Atlantic Differences - E21 320i

[MBH297]

Having read the FAQ's i was wondering, are the Early US spec e21 320i's and the European/British Spec ones the same with regards to the interchangable parts ie for tii big brake conversions, radiators, gearboxes etc? I don't want to go out and spend a fortune on parts to find there the wrong ones!

[ClayW]

Are you upgrading a 2002 or an E21?

[MBH297]

I'm upgrading a 2002, i want to do the tii vented brake upgrade, possibly fit the radiator and 5 speed gearbox.

[02Les]

Apart from the differences to make a LHD designed E21 into a RHD, I believe the parts are the same.

Check www.realoem.com/bmw/ and check part numbers for LHD versus RHD. If they come up the same then you're ok.

Cheers.

[ClayW]

Realoem.com is a great resource to answer those questions absolutely.

I think it's all the same, though. E21 320i's are great for 5 spd's, radiators, alternators, front disks and rear drums for upgrades. If you find an E21 323i over there, let me know. I'd be interested in the rear brakes and trailing arms.

Good luck!

[Guest Anonymous]

Thanks Guys, Clay - I will let you know if i come across anything, trouble is it's rust heaven over hear what with the wind, rain, snow, sleet etc (thats just one afternoon!) and to top it all off they dump tons of salt on the roads to stop idiots driving into each other, most cars over 20 years old end up getting crushed!

[Bill_Riblett]

You are better off than we are i one regard, since E21 323s were available in Britain. Any E21 323 has the vented rotors and front hubs you want. However, you will need to get radiators, trans or engine parts from a 4 cylinder E21.

[ClayW]

(nt)