89.5 turbos

[David Weiss <dzweiss@worldnet.att.net>]

meck@hutton.net (Jon Meckem)wrote:

>  ... 89.5 200q.  Was there an update mid-year to these cars?  If so 
>  could someone please enlighten me?

Early 89's had one knock sensor, 7.8:1 compression.  Late 89's had two
knock sensors, 8.4:1 compression.  Same rated hp (162, although Bentley
sez 157), but higher compression gave some improvement in low-end
torque.  Ned has told me he has done upgrades for both versions, but
that the lower compression engines have more potential to increase
boost, so if you're thinking of going that route...  No vested interest,
but this is a great mod!  Ned seems careful not to blow his reputation
by doing anything too wild on customers cars.  He is $proud of his work,
though, and it sounds like there are folks on the list who have similar
good stuff, too.

OTOH, 89 was the first year for the "wood trim", and there were problems
w/ the finish clouding, and with the dash pieces coming loose from the
substrate at the ends by the doors (both happened on mine).  Don't know
if this was ID'd and corrected later in the MY run, but if so, this
might be a consideration.

HTH,
--Dave Weiss
  '91 V8
  '93 90CS UnQ