What is this engine?

[kontango]

46 minutes ago, Jimmy said:

That's a 1977 M10 M43/1 from an E21 320

1990cc

Carbureted

8.1:1 compression

107hp

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_M10#M43

 

This is about the closest you're going to find to a base 2002 engine besides an actual base 2002 engine. Visually it will match the original motor.

 

Here is an outline of a good build with webers:

https://adamsautosport.com/information/tutorials/bmw-m10-street-hotrod-engine-checklist/

 

 

Thanks Jimmy. Your help is just what I needed. I'm gonna have a mechanic check it out tomorrow and if all is good pick it up and ship it back home! Looks like I have a lot of work on my hands ahead.

[kontango]

Would the E12 M17 be an upgrade on this E21 M43 engine? An upgrade worth paying an extra $850?

[Jimmy]

For a running engine that doesn't need to be rebuilt, yes. The 9.0:1 compression is better for use with the webers. If you're rebuilding it then it doesn't really matter, you'll want 9.5:1 pistons anyway.