I have an early '69 1600 with great bodyshell and worn out most everything else. I also have a strong running '72 2002 with mostly rebuilt mechanicals (details below) and upgrades and a rotting body that's close to being beyond economic repair.

The basic question is - what compatiblility difficulties should I expect to encounter if I attempt to swap everything in the engine bay and under the 2002 into the 1600?

My basic idea would be to strip the 1600 shell, repair anything the body needs, paint, then swap mechanicals from the 2002 into the 1600. Then sell the 2002 shell on Ebay for $20K or so (well, maybe to the nearest junk yard for $20.00 or so if I can borrow a trailer). I assume that this swap would be equivalent to a swap from a later 2002 into a really early one(?)

1969 1600- Old enough to have a single circuit brake system. Stock Engine blowing blue smoke under most conditions- basic tests show a full rebuild would be needed. Brakes pull to one side(front caliper shot?). Mostly good interior. Very good body and glass.

1972 2002- Engine with E12 head in good condition with Weber Carb, Stahl header, Ansa exhaust, rebuilt stock 4 speed transmission, sport shocks, 1" lowered springs. New brakes, lines, etc... (previous owner tackled rebuilding mechanicals but never touched the body or interior). Body needs sills, rest towers, rear quarters, spare tire well, etc...

Thanks for any details about the problems that others have encountered in such a swap!

I am also interested in anyone’s opinion regarding this swap.

I have 2/3 of a 73' Inca that I am looking to swap over to a decent 69' shell... The 73' had "everything" done except finish work before it's front end was lost. I assumed that I wouldn't have much to worry about besides brakes.

Anyone know if I am destined for difficulty?

I cant imagine it being like brain surgery, considering the engines are relatively simplistic speaking from todays standards. I don't think it would be much of a problem. Have you asked on BMW2002faq.com? They would probably be knowledgable on this type of thing. :cool

Thanks for mentioning the FAQ.

the swap itself is streight forward, but is a lot of work. You will have to change everythign but the shell. Break lines to the fronts are different since you are going from single to dual line system. The rear subframe is different and so is the diff. How machanical are you? all it is is a lot of time and a little skill/intuition.

steve k.

I cant imagine it being like brain surgery, considering the engines are relatively simplistic speaking from todays standards. I don't think it would be much of a problem. Have you asked on BMW2002faq.com? They would probably be knowledgable on this type of thing. :cool

Thanks for the replies!

I am just attempting to do all that I can to inform myself of any major difficulties I may encounter. This is the first forum that I have inquired - but I will also try BMW2002faq.com.

So far then, I now know of the following swap differences:
1. Brakes – I intended to upgrade completely anyhow

2. Differential – I had intended to upgrade to a 320’s 5-SP but not
sure which rear end is best? Wonder what rear end fits the ‘69?

3. Rear Sub-Frame – Wonder if this limits rear-end swap options and/or trans options?

The swap isn’t raising any major surprises to me from what I’ve heard... This is good! This will be my first attempt at such a large project but I feel confident that because of my familiarity with the 02 and it’s simplicity... that as long as I am meticulous and patient things will work out OK. Just as long as I am in the right ball park with the two years hopefully matching in major areas needed.

If you are planning on the 5speed . 3.90 LSD out of e21 320 will work great. that will require a newer subframe that is designed for the short diff.

steve k.

I need an engine for my 1969 1600. What others will fit or should I try to rebuild my old ceased one?