engine and drivetrain How do cold compression #s translate into engine quality?

[PSloan]

The car I want to buy boasts Compression numbers on the motor cold between 135-142. It's good that they are pretty close - but are those decent #s for a cold engine?

TIA

ps - im way paranoid about buying a lemon

[02fanatic]

I'm no expert, but I'd say that's excellent for a "cold engine"...compression tests should be done with the engine warm generally. Someone with more knowledge can chime in....I wouldn't want to mislead you.

john

[PSloan]

I think its pretty good too - but I want to be sure.

[trangieboy]

The engine on an E21 parts car i bought (for the 5 speed) has around 160psi cold and 165 hot.

I think if all 4 cyls are similar it should be OK to drive around for a while but definately it`s no race motor. It`s probably half worn out.

Mal.

[TobyB]

Yeah, that's not too bad-

amusingly, throttle opening will make 15-20 psi difference sometimes!

I was surprised...

t