is the 1.8 swap going to be worth it? v.indecision

[SirHustlerEsq]

I am pretty much dead set on running a bell S3 kit. I will run either Xede, or my old haltech E6K. I can't decide which way to go. I have a 1.6 car currently with 150k miles on it. I'd like to order the kit soon because I'm working in OK, and will save $430 on sales tax.

I think its not a good idea to start with a 1.6 because its such a handicap. It may not be like toying with a v6 mustang when you could have a cobra, but its close in comparison.

I was thinking I could either buy a 1.8 for $500 and get the $200 FM swap kit, or spend the same amount and build a forged 1.6. A 1.6 motor is much easier to obtain.

I won't run more than 10psi or so on stock motor, and track the car monthly. I know I need a 7" rear end. I know its not a super car, and I know the fun is on the brakes and in the corners, but I'd like to put down enough power to not get pulled by civics on the straights.


thanks for any advice...and when I bought the car, the owner screwed up the mileage so it now reads TMU, and is not worth selling.

[Flyin96M]

Ok given your background of a HP whore I would do the 1.8 swap. I say this because the 1.8 motor has a larger following in the aftermarket world. I would look for a low milage 99-00 motor as it has a better head and intake design. If you keep your eye out you can get a good deal on one if you watch for them. I managed to snag a 94 1.8 for $100 that was complete. I don't know how much he wants for it, but Gaty has a wrecked 99 with a FM II turbo already on it. Depending on price this may be something to consider and just upgrading with some of the turbo parts from Corky's kit.

[SirHustlerEsq]

Ok given your background of a HP whore I would do the 1.8 swap. I say this because the 1.8 motor has a larger following in the aftermarket world. I would look for a low milage 99-00 motor as it has a better head and intake design. If you keep your eye out you can get a good deal on one if you watch for them. I managed to snag a 94 1.8 for $100 that was complete. I don't know how much he wants for it, but Gaty has a wrecked 99 with a FM II turbo already on it. Depending on price this may be something to consider and just upgrading with some of the turbo parts from Corky's kit.

who has the motor with the FM2?

[Flyin96M]

Gary at TDR. You know our local HP pusher.

[Flyin96M]

This popped up on the pointy board today

click here

[icepenguin66]

I did the 1.8 swap a couple yrs ago & recently helped another new Miata guy do one. I love it & aside from the Moss Low pro headlights, its the best mod I've done! If you are going to go stand alone engine management, then you may be able to do a complete swap using the 1.8 sensors (keeping the 1.6 true oil gauge of course).

Let me know if you want to check mine out or have any questions or want help with the swap when the time comes.