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Message: <blockquote data-quote="fabianyee" data-source="post: 384560" data-attributes="member: 6">Converting from M40 to M42 has its merits. There's significantly less mods required as the M42 is based on the M40. And the M42 available for transplant are also newer as most of these came mainly from the E36 where the production of M42 stopped sometime in 1995. For the M20, production stopped together with the E30 cabriolet. The cabriolet stopped production later than the E30 sedan for a year or so.. Comparatively, the M42 requires less maintenance compared to the M20. it has less spark plugs, less oil needed. No need to worry about snapped timing belts cos it runs duplex timing chain which can last at least 300,000kms.. It's basically a pump petrol and go engine... Can go track day and long distance drive back to back and still wont complain and won't run out of tune... That's what I like about the engine. For my 6 long years using the M42, it didn't require an overnight stay at the workshop, and I use the car everyday. Went for drives with various car clubs and they were all surprised with what the E30 with M42 can do.. "1.8 only?? sure or not... " that's the usual response... Well to me, M40 to M42 conversion is worth the 'only 20 hp' upgrade. The engine feel and driving experience is a big jump from the lazy M40... But running cost is similar to the M40..</blockquote>