Got a question about upgrading the 2.3 16V engine ... - Benzworld.org

**Bruce R.** · 10-29-2004, 05:26 AM

I don't need it yet, but I plan on rebuilding the engine in my 16V. I'm considering some upgrades to bring it up closer to the 2.5 16V performance level.
Does anyone know what the differances are between the 2.3 and the 2.5, and if the 2.3 can be upgraded without buying a new block?

MTI · 10-29-2004, 04:57 PM

Bruce, the 2.5-16 was purely a Mercedes designed product that merely built upon the work that Cosworth had done with the 2.3-16, so there were some major changes. The bottom end (block) was reinforced in the 2.5-15, along with different lubrication and fuel system from the 2.3-16. It also uses lighter pistons and different crankshaft counterweights. The result, along with the change in bore, was an engine that was noticably smoother with more low end torque than the 2.3-16's elevated power band.

Maxh · 12-16-2004, 08:25 PM

Also i believe the crank shaft was thicker, and the crank seals were bigger.
2.3 was single roller timing chain and 2.5 was double i believe. Unless the 87 2.3 is double roller i dont know.
When i build up my engine im going to get a block from an 89 because of the crank size. I believe they mention something about this on bekkers.com