E21 track build subframe questions

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HotDogE21
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Posts: 8
Joined: Mon Jun 02, 2025 4:35 am
My E21(s): 83 320i track build

E21 track build subframe questions

Post by HotDogE21 »

Hello all! Long time reader , first time poster. Recently acquired a crusty ol 83 320i with the intentions of building a wild little track monster out of it. So far, I have the entire interior gutted to bare metal, old tired m10 and getrag 145 out, and I’ve acquired an e46 front subframe as I’ve seen a couple of modifications done for them to fit our chassis. After further inspection, it looks as if I’d be able to outboard the mounting points on each side of the frame rail. Does anybody have any insight as to any issues i may run into as far as geometry or anything else ?The width will not be an issue as I will be putting a widebody kit on the car.


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Duracel79
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Re: E21 track build subframe questions

Post by Duracel79 »

Assuming you'll use the e46 struts and wishbones as well. Then you'll need to look at the location of the rear wishbone mount (lollypop) and also the strut top mountings (these may need moving outboard and rotating). Have you got an E46 shell to take dimensions from? that would be very useful.

HTH
Ben
1982 323i ("Test Mule" - to become an M20 powered track car)
1983 316 (Taiga Thunder - S54 Track car)
1982 635csiA (Another Weldathon)
2004 330d Touring (The Daily Hack / Tow Car / Load lugger)
1974 3.0 csi (The first Weldathon)
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Jeroen
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My E21(s): '81 323i Baur
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Re: E21 track build subframe questions

Post by Jeroen »

Not much I can add here, but welcome anyway! Perhaps you can make a nice build topic in the Owner's Gallery for modified cars?
Regards/groeten, Jeroen
HotDogE21
Newbee
Posts: 8
Joined: Mon Jun 02, 2025 4:35 am
My E21(s): 83 320i track build

Re: E21 track build subframe questions

Post by HotDogE21 »

Appreciate it gentleman, I’ll be starting up a build thread here soon! Unfortunately I do not have an e46 shell to get measurements from so everything so far has been a bit of eye balling and measuring to the center of the hub and side to side of the car. Lots of plumb Bobbing and yelling for the ol lady to come hold the tape measure LOL
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