E36 m3 parts interchangibility

[97byzanzm3]

I recently got around to working on my m3 and getting it road worthy after some previous owner neglect. I'm looking for a factory airbox to replace the intake the previous owner installed and both front inner fenders. Are these parts interchangible from a standard e36 to my 1997 m3 sedan?

[MauiM3Mania]

You could compare he airbox part numbers to see if they do interchange. Go to www.realoem.com for the numbers of the different models.

Same for fender liners, but I"m pretty sure you'll find that they interchange. Sedans vs coupes may vary.

[97byzanzm3]

Ok thank you. I will compare part numbers and go from there.

[97byzanzm3]

So after spending some time on realoem, I am still not clear whether the parts will interchange or not. When I find the parts I can't seem to locate the number that will identify it in the list of part numbers. Does anyone else have any advice that may help me determine if these parts are interchangible?

[MauiM3Mania]

You will want to enter your car year, model, etc. Then find the appropriate sub-category by clicking the blue link. Eventually, you will see a page such as below where part numbers are listed.

realoemlinkage.jpg

[shadowpuck]

the parts numbering system takes a little practice, but, once you figure it out its very logical.

once you find the part you are curious about, click on its part number and it should bring up a page (as noted above) that shows all the other cars it fits.

as a general rule on an e36:
sedan parts fit sedans
coupe parts fit coupes
convertible parts fit convertibles

"M" parts were often a tweak to non-M parts so they usually just bolt right up.

there are even situations where parts will fit regardless of body style - driveline, suspension, etc.

naturally, these are generalizations so there are exceptions (example - m3 half-shafts won't fit a non-m without modification).

[WadiM3]

I would of thought sedan and touring use the same parts/panels where as coupes and cabrios are interchangeable too

[shadowpuck]

this is a high level overview of parts interchangeability.

no e36 tourings in this market, unless one was imported as a one-off.