well im in the market for a jdm motor, and i had some questions.
since the 87-88 had the lower compression, but the 89-91 had the lighter rotating assy. and better seals, so the question is...which one would be better (from your own experience or others) to make about 350-400RWHP
thanx

 

I would say to go with the 89-91 motor. You get the higher compression rotors and the rear housing is stronger. Are you planning on rebuilding it before you install it?

 

i dont think im gonna do a full rebuild, maybe just new seals and a street port. so even though im getting higher compression, the later year is still the way to go? forgive me im somewhat new to rotaries, so if i ask dumb questions, bare with me.

 

come on now...u guys gotta have an opinion or preference to help me out

 

If you're going to take the motor apart you should replace all of the seals and any rotors or rotor housings that are bad. The higher compression 89-91 motors are a little better.

 

better seals???????? not to my knowledge
they have lighter, higher comp rotors, hardened stationary gears and a bit more webbing in the end plate around the top dowel.

 

Yeah, all of the seals are the same, except maybe some of the front cover gaskets/o-rings.

 

You will find that 89-91 engines when taken apart are farely in better condition internally then 87-88. Plus all the factors that were already posted here... go for the newer 1 89-91

 

I agree the 89-91 motor is a better choice if you are going Jspec, they typically are in better internal condition.

They only thing I like about that motor is the eletrical OMP, but that is rather minor.