[Thames]

I have a 94 325is that I plan on doing a euro m3 conversion on over the next few years.

I was wondering if there were any differences other than the drivetrain between the US and Euro m3's. Also, I know the front suspension has some differences between the non M and the m3's here in the states, and I plan on switching to the 96-99 front suspension. Are the steering racks the same between the non m, the us m3, and the euro m3? are there any other differences between the chassis that I will need to address? I want the conversion to be as complete as possible.

(I know I am going to put more time and money into the vehicle than it's worth.)

I figured you guys would be the best to ask =-)

[egebhardt]

Differences I know of on the Evo.

Floating Rotors
1996+ had the 321hp engine
Steering wheel
6spd tranny
many others....

I couldn't find steering rack details here, but have a look.
http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=15

[salty]

The Euro M3 has a different diff. All M3's have some extra chassis reinforcements.

[Edgy]

Here's some detailed info that should help:

http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=15

[Thames]

Perfect! exactly what I was looking for, thanks!

And if anyone is wondering about the steering, in regards to the difference between the early us model m3 and the later us model m3 (96-99) the link posted above states "Quicker steering ratio (mean reduced from 17.6:1 to 15.6:1)"

[Edgy]

You're welcome. Awesome site for all questions M related -- Alex Palevsky does a great job, and it's all a labor of love.

[Alex Lipowich]

I'm sure those links have all the details.

Quick thoughts:

First, rather than go to a 95 rack which is considered better than the 96+, why not get the Z3 one with the even better ratios? (can't see the difference externally other than the part number)

Second, early M3 Euro got the 3.15 188 mm medium case diff
Euro 3.2 cars got a different subframe in back, and the large case 210mm 3.23 differential.

For FI I would think the large case is the way to go, I'm always surprised to have any of the LC diffs in stock, thought they would sell like hotcakes.

For road racing, TBH although one might be building up very powerful engines, the weight becomes an issue with the larger case, and most or many of us in the E36 crowd do retain the medium case diff. But doing so is not necessarily a cost saving measure as you'd almost be silly not to upgrade with a finned and extra capacity diff cover, or dry sumping it....especially with the 3.91, 4.10, 4.27, 4.45 some of us run with 6 speeds.

If you get interested, I can throw some Euro front struts, rear T/A and rear springs along with M3 front and rear sway bars onto a pallet WITH your interior, and you'd be pretty far down the path to conversion of a 325 to Euro M3. I have all those bits too. T/A and front struts would have M3 brakes on them already. I have axles as well. Heck throw in a LC diff and subframe if you're feeling rich!

Alex.