I've never owned a 2002. But I expect in 25 years time we will be telling stories here about E46 M3s. I still kick myself for selling mine two years ago (even though I sold it for way more than I bought it, and that helped fund my M2).

I know of two locally that are for sale. One looks to be a turbo clone from a long time back. Both are way too rusty for my skills and budget.

you can stuff some later BMW motors into a 2002...

There were some around that people placed a S14 (M3) engine and getrag 265 trans into, so it can be done, pretty sure there was some hammering to get the trans to fit. The 2002 that were fitted with an auto have a little more room.

Angry hill-climb themed 2002s are great! I think most reasonable swaps have been done including some unreasonables.

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There was a sweet and pretty 90s-retro 2002 with an S14/265 swap that just sold on BaT for a surprisingly low amount of money.