I'm a newby on this forum so thought I'd introduce myself, and my project so far
The DNA 430 is a lovely conversion, but lacks the V8 feel, so first off I've been researching the donor car capabilities
The famous toystar V8 was my first port of call. This is a transversely mounted northstar auto, unfortunately the engine sits partway into the firewall.
Next step was Hilly's true v8 set up in a lotus esprit
http://www.motorgeek.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=9648So does the Audi A8 V8 with a 20ltr tdi 6 speed box fit in the MR2? yep!
http://www.woodsport.org/joomla/index.php/engine-conversions/51-v8/28-v8-conversions.htmlI have spoken to Custom code and they're pretty sure that they can recode the ecu to ignore the original quattro gearbox.
I need the whole A8 car for extra bits when doing the transplant ie cooling system, cats wiring loom etc..
With over 300hp standard and V8 torque the engine will now give me the satisfaction of a replica and still be cheap to service, who knows a little further down the line a supercharger may be in the pipeline (I prefer the almost instant power as apposed to turbo lag)
I have been looking to build a replica for over 15 years but haven't had the time, now I do and can't wait.
First purchase will be the A8 4.2 quattro, a 1995-1998 for around £1600
The car will have the ecu sent away for reprogramming and remapping.
Next my Mr2 purchase, I'd like to get one with the precat destroyed engine, who knows. Budget £2500 max
Once engine is running in the car I will purchase the 430 kit, I'm quite happy to do the suspension mods myself as I've built and raced short circuit cars for over twenty years, I'm not to fond of the large wheel spacers, I'll speak to the GAZ and LEDA guys later.
Colour- ferrari met black with tan leather interior, One of my old mates is a great refinisher and sprayer, he'll spend a whole week preping and spraying in ICI
Just need to find the two cars to make a start!
Darren