1998 2.8 Z3 needs a new heart

[healeydays]

Hi folks,

I have a friend that has a 1998 2.8 Z3 needs a new heart. His motor game up the ghost due to some poor work by a previous owner. He wants to do a SIMPLE engine swap and has found a 2000 2.8. Are they the same motor and will it be just drop in and plug or do they have different harnesses or computer setups? Anything else he should be concerned about?

[328 Power 04]

If the 1998 is the single VANOS engine, then they are not the same at all. The M52tu from a 2000 Z3 uses different control, wiring, intake/exhaust, and a different head.

[healeydays]

I thought as much. Thanks for the confirmation. I've passed the message onto him.

[bluptgm3]

The Single VaNos 2.8L engine is pretty common 1996 - 1999, 3-Series, 5-Series, and Z3.

Although the Z3 2.8L is an aluminum block.

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[cjames10]

I just saw your post. I got a M52B28 cast iron engine out of a 1998 528i. I swapped it into my Z3 2.8 and everything bolted up. I have been driving it for 8 months and no problems.

The cast iron engine adds 50 pounds to the front. The front sits a little lower but it is barely noticable. If you search the forum you will find my posts about the swap.

Here is a web site I set up about it. https://z3projectun.blogspot.com/