Hi all,

I have owned a 1988 3.2 Carera with european specs for the last 9 years. Over the years I have done little modifications in the hope of gaining a little more power/torque out of the engine, eg SSI heat exchangers and Cone filter 'cos I didn't want to compromise the drivability of the car (I drive it on a daily basis). I would like very much to try and get some more power from the engine without anything drastic like turbocharging or supercharging. Can anyone out there suggest what modifications I can do ? I have read about the Autothority Mass Flow Sensor kit - does it really work and is it worth the expense ? What about performance chips ? As my car has european specs, it is a little difference from the USA ones and already puts out about 235 bhp (I think). I shall be grateful to receive any feedback. Thanks.

Tongel

 

Tongel:

You've done all the easy things that are the most cost-effective,.....

IMHO, the MAFS is not cost-effective unless you get one well below what the market charges for them.

Although its not cheap, its time for:

1) Displacement increase to 3.4 litres

2) Twin-ignition

4) 964 cams

5) Extrude-honed intake manifolds

I would NOT advise any aftermarket forced induction.

These things will not compromise the longevity of your engine and in fact, will enhance the drivability.

 

Steve:

Would you run the stock (re maped of course) motronic with the 3.4 setup you describe here? or an aftermarket ECU?

What sort of rear wheel HP do you think this setup would yield?

Thanks

 

Steve-

Would you consider bench flowing the heads during a valve job (3.2 '87-'89), ie top end rebuild worthwhile.

 

Peter:

I would install a custom chip if you do the 3.4 conversion. Some aftermarket engine management systems are OK, but not cheap,.....

Its difficult to accurately predict HP changes since other factors are needed for these conversions; twin-ignition for one. Some people upgrade the exhaust as well to take full advantage of a displacement increase.


Steve:

To be honest, the Carrera heads flow very well amd its FAR easier to make them worse,.... We only open ip and flow these heads when its for an all out race motor. I would simply do a high-quality valve job with good (non-factory) guides and spend the money on doing the intake manifolds.

Now, THOSE have room for some improvement,....

 

Steve:

Can you give a general 'ballpark' on what kind of budget one might need for this.

 

I have to say that I am very happy with my Steve Wong chip in my car. I understand you have a euro car - but Steve can map a chip that matches your exhaust and will make a real difference in the drivability.

I have one on my 87 cabriolet with a dansk premuffler and dual out dansk SS sport. Driveability is greatly enhanced, much more lower end punch. Best money I have spent so far.

I would try that before anything else.

 

Steve,

Funny you should mention that. I have been exploring the possibilities of a 3.4. upgrade and have been in contact with Ruf. However, their "package" comes with a re-mapped motronic EMS and sports catalytic coverter and is basically... very expensive. Is what you are suggesting the "minimum" for cost-effective power increase ? Do you think there is a need for an additional oil cooler and if so, can you suggest where it can be effectively located without having to change the existing valance ? Thanks.

Tongel