rubystone

I'm thinking of buying one (in the UK) and am aware of their horsepower deficit over the European version. Is it easy to regain the "lost" bhp? What other differences were there between UK & US spec cars?


Thanks

KC911

I'm no expert, but if you replace the catalytic converter with a euro premuffler, and upgrade the DME chip (particularly if you looking at an 84-86), I think you'll have 'found' the 'lost' hp. Also lower the car to euro specs, and I think you're there...Keith

rubystone

Thanks Keith - pretty much bears out what I've already been told (it is an '85 car)

MAS

I'm not 100% certain, but I think the Euro 3.2s had higher compression ratios too. If this is the case, regaining the lost HP is not quite so simple.


-MAS

Richard-Dublin

I think MAS is correct - more than just an exhaust and CAT! I'm pretty sure there was a question asked in 911 and Porsche World on this issue and the reply confirmed that there was a fairly substantial "Engine Job" required to restore the lost horsepower!

rubystone

Yes the Euro compression ratio is higher

Hugh R

9.0:1 compression,O2 sensor and cat.>U.S.
10.5:1 compression >ROW

KC911

Out of curiosity (for a novice like myself), with everything else being equal, how much difference will there be between the two compression ratios, and in what way (i.e. hp, torque, etc.)? Thanks...Keith

MAS

I think the early US 3.2's were around 206 hp, while the Euros were around 236hp. (can't remember the torque numbers).

-MAS

Jgordon

The final (1989) cars were 217 US, 231 ROW. So the early cars would have to be less than 231, or 231 max.

I'll second the higher compression on European cars.

Jared

86NOH2O

I don't want to start a chip or no chip war..... but, I do believe the only difference between and 86' and 87-89' US motor is the chip. Change that and you should be up to the 217 hp. I have read several books that say the engine was "remapped" in 87' to produce the increased hp. I'm sure someone on this board can say whether this was just a chip change.

creaturecat

the north american spec car is missing a lot more than just horsepower - why would someone in Europe want a north american spec. car?

rubystone

Creature Cat - what else is the US spec car missing then?....the reason I'm interested is down to the condition of the car (which is in the UK obviously)

I thought that the two specs of cars were identical aside from the engine changes mentioned above and the use of hydraulic bumper (fender) rams in the US cars rather than the sacrificial tubes used in Euro spec cars (and wider rear fender pads too)

It's really help if you could give me some specifics, in case there's something there that could be important.

Chris Bennet

Like what, rust?
US cars have door beams, AC, sunroofs, and generally higher level interiors (power leather vs manual cloth seats). US car consequently tend to weigh a little more as a result. Not as desireable for a track car but for daily driving a US car might be preferable.
-Chris

creaturecat

the Euro car is superior in all ways except for perhaps comfort (i.e.fewer cars with the air conditioning and cruise control) the euro car has higher horsepower, lower weight, better headlights,side markers (for safety) and the all important transmission oil cooler. All things being equal the Euro car is superior.The only reason they sell at a discount in the U.S. is because they have become "grey market" cars whereas they have been altered to be legal for registration