Can I replace a 1999 323iS front end with1993 325iS?

[jdempcy]

My '99 323iS (E36) was in an accident and I found a '93 325iS shell (everything but the engine) for cheap.

I need to replace the hood, bumpers, grill, front panel, and one front side panel (fender).

I've been looking on realoem.com and some of the part numbers are different, and say "Exchangeable retroactively" which I assume means that the 1993 parts will NOT work on the 1999.

However, I found a thread on here which said the difference is the 1996 change the front end of the E36 got, and certain things like kidney grills are not interchangeable pre- and post-1996. But I assume that if I am replacing "the whole front end" basically, then that's fine, right?

What do you think? Can I replace the front end of my '99 with the one from this '93 car?

[scooper]

yes. the kidneys will be different as will the signal markers on the fenders.

[Deus Ex Machina]

As long as it is coupe to coupe, sedan to sedan, etc. I don't see any problem as long as you are using everything from the donor car.

[samy01]

you'll have the pre facelift front panel on your 99 car then.

[Deus Ex Machina]

Sounds like if you only use one fender your marker lights won't match though. Meaning you will need to pick up another early model fender to match.

[jdempcy]

Thanks, all!

I will use both fenders off the donor car so they are matching.

I'm OK with the "pre-facelift."

Thank you all for putting my mind at ease. I was concerned because some of the part numbers on realoem.com are different. Now I understand this makes sense that you can't just mix-and-match pre- and post-facelift parts, but when replacing the entire front end like this, it will be fine.

Thanks again!!