Wow. It's obvious that your budget is very much in line with an awesome setup.
If you can afford it, AND can source the parts, this is what I would put in it.
S14 Engine
I don't know if it's within your rules or not, but as you can see, you have a few options, and either way you go, it will be a freakin' screamer!
I'm interested to know which way you go, keep me informed!
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'86 325es (TURTL3): PJ peetsa hawler
'87 535is (BADWATER): almost done... really.
'86 325e (GRN HLL): DD/show/rocket
'04 x3 3.0i: Wife's Bimmer (manual, woot!)
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