Can you tell by the VIN # that a car is a TII? I've heard that you can tell simply by the the 8th letter of the VIN being a 2. Is this true? Also, what must be done to convert the older model (87-88) TII's to a newer (89-91) TII? Obviously the engine is a little different. The fuel rail's pulsation dampener is a must. But are there other differences? What are they? I know the rear lights are different. So where can I get a kit or something to switch those. I've heard the 87-88's are just as quick as the 89-91's because of the weight difference. Is this true? So far I've only been looking for the 89-91 models because they seem to be all around better than the 87-88's. Anyone have an opinion on which of the two year ranges is better? Is it worth waiting to get an 89-91 or should I go with the 87-88 and just make my own changes? Thanks for ANY of the questions you answer, I know there are a lot and maybe some of them I will find in the search feature (which I am looking into right now) but you'll notice most are opinion based and I'd like to hear a more recent opinion from some of you guys. Thanks.

 

Well, the front covers were different, due to the electrical metering oil pump on the 89+. The front bumper was different as well, as was the side trim. The gauge clusters were round on the 89+'s, they had higher compression from what I remember. Dual TPS, better wastegate on turbo's.

 

Damn, it's sounding like I should wait for an 89+


Any pro's to getting an 87-88?

 

its cheaper :]

 

LOL I just realized I should've reffered to them as S4 and S5. I've gotten so used to talking to non-7 owners that don't know the difference that I'd forgotten that you kids know your stuff.

 

Yeah, there's a point! The 87-88 are cheaper, and more common. 89+ are getting rare, especially turbos. I have an 89 GXL2 (turbo engine/drivetrain) and damn it's expensive to work on that. Also, the mechanical oil pump has less tendency to fail over the electric (series 5)