new to bmw need help 318i

[spanku690]

hey guys im new to the whole bmw thing as im a honda man..

anyways im swapping my eg civic with a b18c swap vtec..for a bmw 1996 318i

http://www.boostcruising.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=352604&hl=


i know its rough outside but thats ok..

also owner said doors dont open etc..is the a common prob? easy fix??
also what do i have to look out for?
whats the common issues with this car..
cambelt right? not chain?
and also comming from a honda service parts etc are cheapp...is the bmw gona kill me on service and parts?
im from australia so what are the aus spec 318? 18 single cam? and the 318is is twin cam?

thanks alot for your help guys!:thumbup:

[strogg]

there's a sticky on the front page talking about common problems. door not opening isn't exactly a common problem.

it's a chain driven valvetrain system, dohc. 4 valves/cylinder

yes, the cost of parts and stuff on this car is going to be a lot more than the honda. also, engine mods for the m44 engine isn't as extensive as those you'll find on the b series of hondas. you also won't be able to get much more power out of the m44 w/o going FI. but the handling on the bmw is totally worth the lack of power. if you want more umph and more NA modability, i suggest going to the 325/328/M3 route.

[spanku690]

not looking for more power as i know its stupid to spend money on a 318..also im staright swapping so m3 etc.. is no option..well according to wiki..aus spec 318i is single cam 1.8..i think? and the 318is is the twin cam?

are they both chain driven? so no need for camblet replacement? thanks