Engine Conversion
#1
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:09 PM
I'm looking into doing an engine conversion to increase the bhp and reliability of my mini as she is used as an everyday car.
The engines im looking at are Fiat abarth 595, Honda vtec, and Vauxhall Astra. Just want your reviews on each mainly the fiat and what else except the engine do I need to do or have to compete the conversion e.g brakes, gearbox etc.
Also if any of you know where I can get this done near Kent would be much appreciated.
Thanks for the help.
#2
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:12 PM
Whatever you do, you're not going to be able to bolt the engine onto the mini gearbox.
So, potential issues include space, mountings, electrics, cooling.
What's in the car at the moment?
There's a couple of places in Kent including Z cars in Ashford, but it depends on how deep your pockets are
#3
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:16 PM
#4
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:23 PM
I don't know anything about the engine unfortunately.
#5
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:28 PM
The abarth motors are very good imo, I've driven a 500 abarth and it went like a rocket! Never seen one in a mini, and there wont be many places that would do or even consider the conversion. Engine alone will be about £1500, then a modified wiring loom, custom subframe, driveshafts, making it fit under the front end (even a clubman would be tight), alternator, exhaust, dash/clocks, upgraded brakes, suspension, rust, etc
I'm doing a Rover K series conversion atm and there is huge amount of work involved, its the same with any conversion, the one your talking about there is no information about so you'd be starting completely from scratch
Edited by Will16, 31 January 2017 - 08:29 PM.
#6
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:31 PM
It basically all comes down to how competent you are.
I've heard of people doing K series conversions with budgets of £1000. But they have allot of skill and understanding.
Common engines like k series, v tech, vauxhall red top will have subframes and bits made up for them by suppliers, so you can buy them almost off the shelf.
Also the newer and more desirable the engine (for other engine conversions) the more expensive.
#7
Posted 31 January 2017 - 08:43 PM
Okay I'll have a look into all of that and regarding competent I'll have to get someone to do everything really budget wise I don't have one just want to know how much you could spend for a whole conversion for example what would it be for red top conversion?
#8
Posted 31 January 2017 - 09:13 PM
#9
Posted 31 January 2017 - 10:08 PM
The problem with the modern engines like the Abarth is integrating the electronics....on modern cars the ECU not only controls the engine, but things like door locks, immobiizer, ABS, DCS, TPMS and a whole host of other acronyms......
I think the easiest is the Vtec or the Rover K motor conversion, those have been done many times and there is good support on parts and electronics for them. More than enough power in either, too.......but it's not cheap if you're going to pay someone to do the whole job for you.
I think I would consider buying a modern car for your daily if you just want more performance and leave the Mini alone, since you can't do any of the work yourself.
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