Why I'm LS Swapping My BMW E30 Touring

Why am I LS swapping my BMW E30 Touring? In this video, I break down the full story of how I found my E30, why I chose an LS (well, technically an LQ4), and what my plans are for the build. I’ll cover the goals for the car, the challenges I’ve faced so far, and what’s coming next as I push to get this swap on the road.

From the solid shell I picked up in 2021, to considering an M50 turbo or even a Toyota swap, to finally pulling an LS out of a Chevy Suburban in the US — this is how the project began. I’ll share why the LS made sense for me in the UK, the aftermarket support available, and what I’m aiming to build: a clean, reliable, cammed V8 BMW E30 touring that stands out at shows, road trips, and cars & coffee.

If you’re into engine swaps, BMW builds, or just want to see an LS-powered E30 come to life, make sure to subscribe and follow the journey.

Timestamps (example)
00:00 – Intro: Why LS swap an E30?
00:20 – Buying the BMW E30 Touring
03:51 – Early swap ideas (Toyota, M50, turbo)
05:13 – Why the LS makes sense
07:28 – Build goals & vision for the car
08:20 – What am I excited for the most
08:24 – Challenges so far
10:44 – What’s next for the build
12:33 – Outro

Follow along for more:
🔧 LS swapped BMW E30 build series
🔥 Engine swap how-tos and progress updates
🚗 Road trips, cars & coffee, and more when it’s done