I had this for sale a little earlier this year, but I've added some detail and re-listed it in case some of you want it for your winter builds.
For sale is a single vanos World Challenge spec 2.5 liter M54 with three hours on it. The engine was initially a spare and pulled because it was replaced with a dual vanos unit.
The World Challenge spec then was a specific cam profile, forged pistons, Carrillo rods, Ferrea valves, our (Sunbelt's) spring package, and solid lifters. It is 11.5:1, makes about 300HP at the crank and was set up to run 8300 RPM. For some perspective, that weekend in an e46 325ci it ran consistent 2:31s at Road America.
It was built by Sunbelt engines in early '06 and ran the race at Road America and the entire weekend (practice, qualifying, & race) at Mosport. There are currently no problems at all with this motor. Includes alternator, does not include ecu. It is crated and ready to be shipped anywhere in the lower 48 states.
$11,000 or best offer.