Bill Wessale wrote:
I have a 1968 Mark III and would like to swap out the engine,
transmission, and rear suspension.
Does anyone know of popular swap outs?
I found the information on "The Beast" with the 350 V8, and even though
I think that's really neat, I was looking for something a little
more tame, like a small V6 or perhaps a Miata 4.
I hope this isn't considered sacriledge. I just think the drivetrain
is the weak link in the Spitfire. I like the looks, the weight, the
size and the front suspension. If I can stick in a 120 HP lightweight
hig-revving motor with a 5-speed, and ditch the swing-axle rear end, I
think it would be a blast!
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Bill,
Sacriledge? Hmmm, well maybe, but hey, it's your car so enjoy it.
May I recommend that you not trash the drivetrain at least and save it
for other Spit enthusiasts?
More to your question, Barry Schwartz stuffed a Ford V-6 into his
Spitfire, a 5 speed from (I think) a Ford Mustang, and the rear end is
a stock Spitfire unit with a Quaife diff. (I think). Anyways, he says
it goes like stink and looks original until you open the bonnet. The
Mazda 13B is a good alternative, and Grassroots Motorsports made that
exact swap a few months back - try to get copies of the articles
detailing the work involved. Caveat - I understand the rotary engine
requires a LOT of fabricating to make fit, but the Ford V-6 is easier.
The Miata 4 banger may work and fit okay, and if that is the route you
want to take, you might also consider the Toyota 20R (?) motor from
the Celica or the one from the MR-2/Corolla GT - I hear it is a pretty
sweet unit with good power to weight and lots of performance parts
available. Also, Honda makes some very compact and light units that
are extremely easy to upgrade in terms of horsepower.
Finally, for the truly loony, you can copy the "Beast" (I,too, saw it
on the internet - don't even get me started on THAT one) or try
stuffing in the Buick/Rover 215 CID aluminum V8. I almost did that
myself as a friend of mine has a spare alum. V8 block, but I decided
against it - just too much damn work.
Ross D. Vincenti
64 Spitfire 4
64 Porsche 356C Coupe
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