Posted by Mark on September 14, 2003 at 00:53:27 from 203.59.190.117
In Reply to: My .02 posted by Mike W. on September 14, 2003 at 00:00:31:
Speaking of the European spec cars the e30 323i used much the same 2.3 I6 from the e21 323i, except the e30 version used LE jetronic rather than K jetronic.
Early versions of the Euro e30 323i had 139 bhp, later versions had 150. in late 1985 the Euro 325i was launched, this motor had Motronic and 171 bhp. The 2.3 motor was always known for developing its power with a surge, hit 4000-4500 rpm and the power came in suddenly. The 325i 2.5 is more even in power delivery.
Hartge had a very powerful full house conversion for the e30 that entailed a 2.7 litre version of the later 2.5, this car had a top speed of 142 mph. However, it seems likely that the car you are looking at may have largely cosmetic Hartge enhancements (pinstriping, maybe sports suspension). It was only later in the e30's life that Hartge came up with more elaborate conversions for the e30. Up to 1985 they were doing something to compete with Alpina's C1 e21/e30 i.e. a moderately sporty 323i with a special cam, freer exhauast, sports suspension, mild bodykit.