Hello, my neighbor has an 89' Dodge Daytona ES Turbo for sale, she wants 500 dollars but it needs engine work, i wanna use the car as a beater, its been well cared for but the motor has alot of miles, it needs a new head gasket and some TLC. I am interested in modding it a little, since its boosted i figure it may have some potential, i am curious to how much power these cars can make reliably. Actually any info you can give will help, the only thing ive really found online is how to make an MBC and Trick the ECU for more boost, but thats abuot it.


Thanks in advance.

 

89 ES ------>2.5L Turbo I (most likely)

That means it is a non intercooled, "Common block" engine. Block, crank, and rods, should handle 300+hp fine. 2.5 Pistons have a weaker top ring land and won't tolerate detonation. Also has a small Mitsu T04H turbo which will choke at moderate boost levels.

check out the turbo database on http://www.thedodgegarage.com/ it is pretty much accepted as the expert opinion on these engines.

 

Yeah ive been at that site for a few days, its really informative. Thank you for your advice