FYI:
There are UK registered Grumman AA1's & 5's with upgraded/rated Lycomings.
AA1 Original - Lyc. O-235-C2C (108hp) upgraded to a Lycoming O-320-E2G
AA5 Original Lyc. O-320-E2G(?) (150hp) uprated to 160hp
(Higher compression pistons and other magical stuff)
So it can be done (but usually on the back of a recognised USA issued STC)