BMW Repair: BMW E30 head replacement, bmw e30, intake ports

Question
Don, Is it possible to fit the '87 'i' series cylinder head to an '85 325e?  I plan to rebuild my engine and install a performace cam and 10:1 pistons.  It appears that there is a much broader selection of cams for the 7 bearing 'i' series heads.  Do they bolt up to the 'e' series engines?  Thanks ! Steve

Answer
Yes it is possible to install the later head on the earlier engine.There are problems though,the biggest being the later head has larger valves and intake ports.The earlier intake will all bolt up but it would cause a restriction of intake flow.You should also get an intake to help on the performance.You,with the 85, have a cold start valve on the later intake there is none, as it all is computer generated.The port where it bolts on to is still there so you would have to exchange the injector.You need to make sure there is ample clearance between valve and piston as well.I am sure the newer pistons are domed.
Just exchanging the head without any lower end mods is quite a performance increase.