Ok listers - My wife is going to let me buy a motor for the custom from some
of the tax return check.
Which motor is the question.
1600 turbo - Pros: I have the motor and trans already. I can machine most
of the parts and make the manifolds, so cost would be reasonable. Also,
installation would be a no-brainer. Cons: I would like more torque and
something "different".
302 Ford - Pros: easy/cheap to build. Trans easy to find. Major HP/torque
for a 2000lb Roadster. Cons: Maybe too much for a Roadster. Installation
head aches. Will need big tires/flares to get the power down. Extra weight
up front.
4.3 L GM - Pros: same as Ford, but smaller package and lighter. Cons: wide
motor so steering shaft would have to be moved. Other installation issues.
2.8 L GM - Same as 4.3, but narrow block (60 degree) so steering shaft may
clear. Cons: I may not get the HP I am looking for.
Buick 215 aluminum block V8 - Pros: Light and cool! Good power and torque.
Looks good and different. Motor matches era of the Roadster. And as Thomas
the Swede points out - with the right exhaust headers it will sound like a
Cosworth motor! The MG guys do a lot of these conversions, so a lot of
information out there. Cons: rebuildable core is fairly expensive (about
$400.00). Parts are expensive as Roadster parts. Not easy to find, but
they made 750,000 so not that bad.
I want a motor that looks Roadsterish (1600 or Buick 215) - with custom
aluminum parts any motor can look right. If I go fuel injection I will use
a mass air unit and custom air box which will help "dress up" the motor. No
stamped steel valve covers! Also, I want to really scare the neighbors -
they are getting used to the 1600 and 180's:-) I would like close to 200 HP
and torquey. Any suggestions are welcome!
Phil
SEROC
Hint for the day - don't do 180's with too much dirt on the road. Takes
forever to get the grit out of your mouth, and you over-shoot the driveway.
The grit would not be so bad if it was not for that big Roadster
smile........
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