Can a head from M103 2.6 be fitted to a 3.0 to increase compression?

[MatBat]

I've had a look and can't seem to find anything conclusive however I understand that one of the difference between the 3.0 and 2.6 litre engines is the 2.6 has dished pistons vs the 3.0's flat top pistons.

This got me wondering if simply fitting a 2.6 head would work to increase the compression ratio or would valves hit pistons etc? Could be a simple way to get a few extra hp.

 

[grober]

Something at the back of my mind about different bore centres between the two engines- the 3.0 is not just a bored out 2.6 but the 3.0 has siamesed bores--i.e. no discrete water passages between adjacent pairs of cylinders like the 2.6.

ps the 2.6 head also had slightly smaller valves

 

[Petrol Pete]

How about skimming what you have or having thinner gaskets made ?

 

[MatBat]

Thanks for the replies gents. All still in the idea stage however I'm looking at fitting the 3.0 with a manual box into a W201 2.6

You're probably right Pete that skimming stock head and using a thinner gasket is the better way forward.