Tom,
There is no legal requirement in the UK. You can put any engine in any car.
As long as it is rated as being roadworthy by the MOT tester, then it is
street legal.
The only legal requirement is to inform the insurer, who may clap a higher
premium on non-stock changes.
There are no pollution controls for older cars. I think the cut-off is 1973,
but I'm not sure on that. In any case, the exemption is based only on the age
of car, not the engine. Newer cars must pass the CO and SO2 ratings for the
type of car, or would fail the MOT. I'm pretty sure that my SIII would not
pass the current regulations, so I'm pleased that it is exempt.
The other excellent feature of the UK system is that cars built before '73
are also exempt from paying road tax, which is currently #155 p.a. This was
introduced by the previous Conservative government, in recognition of the
contribution made by the classic car fraternity to the economy, and fact that
most classic car owners have everyday cars in addition.
Julian.
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