E36 & E46 Convertible Hard Top Interchangable?

[Tigas Bud]

Is the optional hard top for a convertible E36 the same as the E46? Saw one listed that said it fit both and wondered if it really does fit both since I can't really see anyone making a universal fit. Wonder if BMW thought about it and made the dimensions the same of the covered area and window mounting...

 

[Kirby]

I highly doubt, but let's try to figure it out. The mounting pins on the rear of my E46 hardtop are 53 5/8" center to center. Measure your '94 325 mounting holes....

 

[Tigas Bud]

No Pins on mine since I don't have the hardtop but the place where they would mount is about 53 5/8" The front locking holes are at 35" oc and a diagonal measurement from a hole to where the rear pin could be is 63 1/2.

 

[Kirby]

The front holes on mine are on 31 3/4" centers - no good. FWIW the diagonal is the same as yours - 63 1/2".

 

[Tigas Bud]

There is a second set of small holes (4 mm) at the front next to the cone shaped locking holes for the but those are at 30 1/2".
Thanks for checking it out.

 

[JUS]

I don't think you can use an E-36 hardtop? Check the web site below.

http://www.eztop.com/

JUS

 

[Tigas Bud]

I went checking to see if I could find the e-bay listing of the top, it was in the UK's e-bay. The listing said something like fits old and new body style. It didn't pop up in my web search this time but this did, http://www.bmwaccessoriesandlifestyleimages.com/accessories/exterior/e46_convertible/hardtop.html
What are they doing selling a E36 hardware kit on a page for E46 cars. I appreciate all Kirby's help checking out dimensions and I agree that making a top to fit both styles would be highly unlikely.
I will have to call my friendly BMW dealer and see what's up with selling this kit.