Re: Better to start w/ Euro 323 or a US 320??? (archive)

Regarding licensing, I just licensed a 323i in Washington State a few months ago and it was pretty painless. I had no papers other than the title and registration. They did have to run a check on the car to see that it was previously licensed in the states and that took about a week then once that was done it was it was back to WSP to get the paperwork done.

As far as availability, good luck finding a nice 323i in or near Washington. I got mine out of Orange County CA. Anything is possible and I know of several 323's around but not of any for sale..

Good luck. I love my 323i. It makes my commute worth looking forward to. I live in Fall City just East of Seattle. Drop a line if you think I can help sway you one way or the other. I'm not a BMW expert by any stretch but I can kill some serious time chatting about them....Doug.

Here's my dilema, I *want* to create a performance e21 (2.7L, maybe motronic, lowered, etc.) autocross/driver's school beast eventually. I *need* reliable transportation that provides mild grins back and forth to work and routing the kids to soccer practice.
So is it better to start with a euro 323i and deal with DOT licensing issues (in Washington state) or find a reliable 320i and find euro bumpers and front cross member, etc.?
It is much easier to find the 320i obviously. With a better selection, I can choose the car that appeals to me more. The pool of 323's for sale is small and finding a car in good condition, without rust, with DOT and EPA receipts is going to be a long process.
If I go with the 320i, I can take my time and find the parts that I need over time while the wife drives the 5 series. I can upgrade the suspension, brakes and wheels, find the cross member and euro bumpers (a challenge in it's own right, possibly) and get the car ready for the engine conversion.
Time frame is probably going to be a couple years. It seems like I can pick up a 320i in good condition for about $2 - 2.5k. I can put another $1.5-2k in it initially to take care of any issues and upgrade the handling and appearance. Then down the road, drop in a Korman 2.7L or something else (suggestions).

What do you guys think? I've owned a few BMW's over the last 8 years (E28, E36 & E34), but never a E21 (the first BMW to catch my eye). Let me know your experiences and suggestions.

Thanks,
David
dahows@home.com

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