Originally Posted by jmarch

Reynard,

I am also an E30 325is owner. Frankly, I'm amazed (though I must admit that I'm not sure I believe) that you could build an M20 (notwithstanding the fact that's it's a turbo) to put out enough HP to upstage your 911 and not blow apart in 10 seconds. [For all those who are not intimate with E30 325is BMWs - the M20 is a 2.5 liter12valve 6 cylinder which comes standard. It puts out 168hp and 164lbs in a car weighing approximately 300lbs less than a NB 993].

I see that you've enlarged the engine 2.7 liters (presumably with an eta or TD crank to achieve the extra displacement and lower compression). I imagine you are running a custom fuel injection system as it's unlikely the standard motronic can handle the fuel requirements of your car. Does the car have an intercooler? Glad to see you've done a 5 lug conversion (even though E30 M3 brakes are still mediocre).


Much as I love my 325is for what it is, even with 300hp it simply doesn't compare to my 993. (My EVOIII E30 M3 wasn't close either). The 993 is a total package - brakes, handling, steering in a balanced package. The 325is is nice, but it's steering, brakes, and structural intergrity are lacking at 168hp - not to mention 300hp

For me, the longer I own my 993 (it's been 9+ years now), the more I love it. Same with my 325is, but to a lesser degree. I'll probably never sell either.

Cheers,

Originally Posted by Reynard38

I was amazed too when I first drove the car. Yes is does have the 524td crank, lightened and balanced. 2nd oversize super ETA pistons (forged by JE). The turbo kit is by Todd at www.turbochargingdynamics running 10psi. With a Begi RRAFPR the re-chipped Motronic does just fine and the AFR's are a safe 12/1 under boost. 30 pound injectors are installed. A car similar to mine runs mid 12's in the 1/4 at 110mph. It has a liquid to air intercooler with it's own tank and pump.

The underpinnings are not stock either. E36M3 coilovers from Treehouse racing with Koni Adjustables, Urethane bushings throughout, bigger sways, and a UUC big brake kit with 13" rotors up front with 4 piston aluminum calipers. Also installed a quicker steering rack (2.7 turn lock-to-lock) out of a Z3. A friend of mine has a E30 M3. This car will destroy it.

I initially wanted to build a 911SC to roughly 3.0RSR specs. I love those cars. Financially that was not possible, so I went with the E30 project. It's relatively cheap and lots of fun.

But I don't think I will ever sell the Carrera "S". I agree it is a total package. But I wouldn't mind another 50-70 hp either (Ninemeister are you listening?)