Do I build a stroker M50?

[hreverman]

I'm currently rebuilding an E30 325e & swapping in an M50b25 from an E34. I'm wanting to make about 300-350 whp when finished (I already have suspension, brakes, etc. to hold more power). I'm planning on turbocharging the engine and doing the recommended rebuilds for the engine while it's on the stand. I've been considering the stroker build since I bought the engine but I'm wondering is it necessary to achieve that power range (or more) & is it worth it? What are everyone's experiences?

[jbontke]

If you were going to be NA only, the larger displacement would be good. But adding a turbo to the 2.5 (assuming its to too big) should spool quickly and give you the torque you want. The m20b25 with a turbo done right will make plenty of torque. I would imagine the same goes for the m50b25. Size the turbo right and it will spool quick. Save the money from stroking and buy a good turbo, no china crap.

[McGyver]

The m20b25 with a turbo done right will make plenty of torque. I would imagine the same goes for the m50b25. Size the turbo right and it will spool quick. Save the money from stroking and buy a good turbo, no china crap.

The 24v head flows way better than an m20, so part-for-part and psi-for-psi, the m5x will outperform an m20. A stock m20b25 in decent condition can easily make 300-350 whp.

Rebuild the engine so it'll be reliable, skip the stoker, plan your build and buy quality parts. You could also to a supercharger?

[jbontke]

The 24v head flows way better than an m20, so part-for-part and psi-for-psi, the m5x will outperform an m20. A stock m20b25 in decent condition can easily make 300-350 whp.

I agree with you statement. However, I wasn't comparing the engines "head to head". I stated that the turbo m20b25s I have seen perform very well with boost. Thus I would imagine that the M50B25 would perform better with a turbo as well. Not that they would perform the same.