M60/M62 conversion - Is it possible?

[DaveP]

Hi folks. I'm looking to get back into a Z4 later this year (previously in an E85 3.0i), and came across this kit to fit the M60/M62 V8 into RHD E85s. https://cybul.eu/shop/bmw-e46-and-z4-m60-m62-engine-swap-kit/

Info on the conversion seems to be really scarce, which makes me wonder whether there's some sort of hidden complexity. I know the engine bay isn't huge, but it's also not the smallest.

Does anyone know anything about these conversions? I don't particularly want a Z4M, as I feel like they are overpriced at the moment, and I quite like the idea of creating something unique. Starting with a 2.2 with a broken engine would seem like a sensible place, but I really know nothing about this at all.

 

[JamesClements]

No idea but really interested to hear how you get on - love the idea of a V8 Z4! I think it's a fairly common swap on the E36 chassis?

 

[Ed Doe]

A v8 is only 4 cylinders long, so considering they fitted the inline-6 into the engine bay, a v8 should at least theoretically be no issue!

I know of a very few z4ms with the s65b40 v8 from the e92 m3 fitted.

Go give it a try! I suspect the most complex thing by some margin will be the wiring and integrating with the ecus. Clearing the steering column with the manifolds might be a bit of a twat but I'm sure it's doable.

EDIT:

Here you go, someone's done it!

https://youtu.be/agRfudo9Y5M

https://youtu.be/zYRG2KQ6QVs

This is the z4mc I was referring to too :

https://youtu.be/9LGkEPGRnh8

I'm sure there's at least one more floating about.

 

[tomscott]

Depends what you want, these projects start and not many finish because walls are hit that end up costing £££ to work around.

One of the reasons the V8 isnt really a popular swap is probably the gearbox, the Z4M has a different box to the E46 M3 because of its package. It's also because 414hp is easily achievable with a super charger. The electics may also be hard work. There are quite a few V10 conversions and the stall points were electrics and communication.

The M roadsters aren't really expensive can pick them up from about 10k and can always add a supercharger to them, its cheaper, relatively bolt on with a lot of support. They will reach similar power levels to a V8 without the effort.

The other thing too is the M comes with all the nice additions that the normal cars dont. Like start adding quad exhaust conversions, seats, brakes, suspension etc it all starts adding when you can buy most of it out of the box with the M.

 

[Mister T]

If you can get hold of a cheap 540i manual donor car then go for it. There's a kit to fit a Jaguar M112 supercharger on the M60, which would be fun