Swapping parts on an E36 convertible top?

I have a 1995 318i convertible - manual top. Current top needs some TLC or replacement - funds tight. A friend suggested finding a wrecked/parts car & gleen the top & parts cheaper than ordering new parts. What years will fit my 1995? I know Chevys run in 3 yr. cycles & If I find an electric/auto top - can I safely upgrade?

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: BMW Convertible Top Adjustment and Repair

[Wayne 962]

Hmm, I'm not 100% sure. I believe that all of the E36 tops are very similar, however, I've never heard of or seen a manual top - all the ones that I have seen are power tops. I would think that you would be able to easily swap parts if you could find one, but I'm not sure if you could swap power top parts with manual top parts (again, I've never heard of a manual top).

- Wayne