Once did an engine swap in a "greenhouse" ti, not so many years ago. Four, IIRC. We got a "crate engine" from a local dealership, the thing was sweet. Less overall expense for the owner and a very smooth job for me. BMW still supply 'em, it just makes sense unless it's a DIY rebuild. Even then, I would consider one.
I like the "twenty-oh-twos". Not so much the later 3-series cars. They seemed a bit more "cheezy" somehow. More plastic than I care for, I guess.