I saw the engine I was looking for 2 years ago. The 300SL M104 from 90-93. It uses the older Electro-Mechanical feul injection, so that you don't have to pay for a new engine management control system.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2413955695

The only other m104 alternative that still uses the older fuel management is the 300CE motor. The 300SL motor made about 230hp and 200 lb.ft. The 300CE makes about 215hp and 195 lb.ft. The 300CE motor is much more readily available, and with a chip, can be pushed to 235hp and 210 lb.ft.

Now most 300CE motors I've found have been around the $3k mark. Add the $500+ for the chip, and your at $3500.

I was also told though that the 300SL comes with anti-knock sensors and also is a lighter engine and what was used as the basis for the newer C280, E320, S320 and other inline 6 engines.

I'm not sure about the last statement.

But I am sure I almost bought that engine. I know, because I already bought the transmision to go with it. Its a 5-speed Getrage with front drive shaft, clutch, flywheel, pressure plate, flex disc, shift linkage, and more. I mean its everything needd for the conversion. It also matches right upto both motors. If anyone remembers Mike Skees witht he 300CE motor inside his 91 190E...he used a 300E tranny. Funny thing is, that a few 300SLs from 90-93 had the Getrag based Tranny matched to the motor in manual form. There were almost no changes from the 190E 2.3-16;2.5-16 Getrag trannys. These trannys were made to handle upto 400 lb.ft. torque. I know because Renntech said they never touched the transmision in the 300SL when it came to the manuals.

Now the reason I listed this as a 190E, is because I have everything for the 190E. The w124s prior to 93 could also get this drop in, but I beleive you would need to get the 300E 5-speed front drive half...not sure though. Don't quote me.

Either case, only thing you need is pateince to rewire this engine...and a cruise control and reverse relay (maybe $20 each...cheaper from a recycler) So that when you have the cruise on, and lift the clutch...the cruise will lift the gas, and reverse because...will reverse so the lights turn on when you shift into reverse.

I have the tranny, heres the motor. If anyone does purchase this motor and needs the tranny...Let me know. If I would have found this about 1 year ago...I would have had it in my car...but I now have a 99 M3, and have been toying with it. I can't really afford 2 project cars. So This is for anyone who wants a nice Conversion.

If you are a turbo person, be worn. I've heard that a few m104 engines can be easily adapted to accept the 98-99 E300 TurboDiesel manifold and turbo since they are very similar, both 24v DOHC engines, just built for each purpose...one a Gas engine, other Diesel. I'm not sure the truth of this rumor either, but so far it seemse feasible. If the manifold does bolt up, then all thats left is getting the turbo with it, or upgrading your turbo from something to match the m104 gas engine.

Good Luck, hope someone gets that engine.

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Chirag (Charlie) Patel
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- 03 Mercedes S600 Sport TTV12
- 97 Acura NSX-T
- 99 BMW E36 M3 w/500+ HP
- 04 Lexus RX330
- 04 Dodge Dakota Quad 4x4 V8

4 Sale:
- 99 BMW M3 E36 Coup with Dinan SC, Upgraded to an RMS Stage 3 with Aftercooler, 12psi, and 500+hp @ flywheel.