[JamesUK]

Hello all,

I have a 1984 3.2 with 220,000 miles on it. The car pulls well and runs 3-4 on the oil presser gage and 210-230 deg. Car does not smoke but it does lose a little oil.
I just found a single head stud when I pulled the valve cover.
As such I know I will be “doing the heads” and replacing the head studs. As such I’m in the “whilst your there” stage. That’s where I need some advice. If I do end up doing a full engine rebuild what do you think I should do?

Option A is build a stock motor just like it was 1984.
In not too keen on that as I’m thinking “if I’m spending all that money why don’t I upgrade”.

Option B is build a 3.2 but build it with more power.
I like this idea but what would I do to get more power and what would it cost. I’m thinking I would have to up the compression but how high can I safely go running one spark plug and using CA gas (91 Oct/95 RON)? Would I have to replace P&C if I up the compression? If so what P&C should I use? Also the CAM’s would get work. I read a lot of people putting in 964 Cams but it seems to me that only gets you power higher in the rev range. Don’t know about you guys but I don’t redline my motor (much ) so is it a loss to do this, what is a better cam for low/mid-range? So with the valve job I could change the springs, is it worth doing? New plugs and leads. Anything I’m missing here, I know I am so what is it?

Option C build a 3.4 /3.5
But what type? Can I run single plug or do I need to twin plug it (keep in mind the fuel, 91OCT/95RON). What other differences are needed to support a 3.4/3.5 over Option B?

I look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions on part suppliers.