Hi all you guys - now I have fixed my garage roof condensation problem, (see my other post under 'other locost related issues), I am starting to get to grips with the build - er - I've done pedal box, brake pipes, got a wiring loom (premier wiring) - the BIG QUESTION is what engine do I put in? Pinto 2.0? / Zetec / Zetec E / CVH / Crossflow / Rover K series / Vauxhall 2.0 XE / Toyota 4AGE ?

I am in my early 50's, I want a reliable motor, - I have no intention to use it for track days, I don't want (or need!) to spend several grand - I know the add - ons for the Zetec for instance eg ECU, sensors etc can seriously add up - I have a 1.6 pinto which I think is a bit sad to use, but I will probably be able to use the type 9 gearbox that is on it. I would like a reasonable amount of power without going daft - 130 to 160 bhp would be nice. My main thoughts are along the lines of an old (pre - 95 - SVA emission evasion idea?) mondeo mot failure and take the 2.0 Zetec / ecu / engine wiring loom and whatever else is needed then scrap the shell.

What thoughts have you guys, please?

Here is a pic of the hole it has got to fill!!!

I would go red top on a pair of 40's.

I'd use the 1.6 pinto, then upgrade to a zetec later.

I've got 1.6 pinto in mine and am happy with the performance so far.

Cheers

Rich

Standard 2.0 zetec with its own efi will give 136bhp with standard exhaust manifold. It will be cheap and reliable.

To go carbs or Tb's on the zetec will be no cheaper or dearer than any outher engine.

Use an OLDER engine, so the Emissions are easier, then change to something nicer later. Makes it easier on future MoT's.
ie a pre CAT engine, has to be an advantage.
OK its work to change it. Biggest prob would be where the exhaust comes out, and the side.
I would go Ford. There are Loads of engines available in breakers etc.

Red Top is nice. But I would still stick to a Ford.

V8 is nice too, but gets expensive (like two engines etc.

I used a 1.6 pinto when i built the car
which was reasonable.i now have 2.0
pinto with bike carbs and its a lot quicker.
i would put your 1.6 in and then change to
a zetec later.

Andy

I'd say if you are not concerned with getting an age related plate then go with a pre 95 zetec.

Just love the help you guys on this forum give - so quick, too - 5 replies in 20 / 30 mins - keep the opinions coming - even if all you are building IS a "garden wall" !

What sort of power do you get from the 1.6 pintos ?

I've got the 4AGE 20v in my Velocity.

It suits the car really well and seems like a good cross between a CEC and a BEC due to the light weight and high RPM.

Currently 154 Bhp but will hopefully get 180-200bhp when the new cams and ported head are fitted.

No help with the engine but before you fit the suspension do a search on here for crush tubes, it may save you loads of grief.

My Velocity is fitted with an XE and it is a dream to drive. It's not just that it is fast but it is also the power delivery and noise. I use a standard type 9 and a set of throttle bodies but I would think that a simple carb job would still be very good.

I have not driven a 7 with a Zetec in but I have driven the original Fords they came from and they were hardly good cars to drive. Go for the XE, they're Great.

Where are you? Are you going to any of the shows this Summer? I'd be happy to take you out in mine for a spin.
Rescued attachment DSC02130a.JPG

I am in Blackpool - a long way from sunny North London, But thanks for the reply and the offer of soiling my pants! I will try to get to some of the shows, but they seem to be concentrated in the midlands and the south! I like the look of the XE - what is needed to fit it - ECU, clutch wiring - How easy is it to connect the type 9? Also, what do you think of the replies I've had who recommend to stay with Ford? Cheers, Steve.

Dont get me wrong, XE's are a good engine.
There are lots of other good engines out there.

Think about what you want.
Power?
Ease of fitting (special bellhousings can be an unnecessary expense)?

Most of the time I spent building my car, was in thinking about what I wanted, and how to do it.
Its a case of "Measure 10 times Cut ONCE".

Good planning will make the job easier and give a better result.

To be honest, any engine in a Se7en will give you good performance, whether tuned or not.
The handling is outstanding, and you can have a lot of fun driving with a 1300 Xflow engine, let alone with 250Bhp of power under the bonnet.

Me... I wanted a V8 two seater for about 40 years.... Now I have one!

Take your time, think it through, decide, then ACT.

Have fun with your build.



[Edited on 30/3/2009 by wilkingj]

The XE is very easy to fit to the type 9, just a bell housing change. Other than that all expense should be similar to the fords. I definitely don't want to come across all anti ford, I'm not. Its just that the Pinto and the Zetec are both pretty dull engines. The newer engines such as the all alloy Zetec SE are much more captivating. And when it comes down to it, driving a car like these should surely be for making you happy. One other post mentioned a MR2 engine and they are really enthralling. I guess my personal view is to avoid dull if at all possible.

Bellhousing from A Frame

A Frame

BTW

Much rather be getting on with build No.2 than the garden wall

Just like to say thanks again to all you guys - both for the engine opinions, and for the 'extras'. I have spent some time scrutinising your photos, too. Mr RichardK ( happy with his 1.6 pinto! ) has an especially good gallery - an amazing 470 photos helps a newbie like me a great deal. I take my hat off to some of the fantastic engineering skills some of you lads have. I am looking into the 'crush tube' issue which I had no idea about.

What's that I hear you say?
Engine?
Errrrrm?
Well, before I was 90% sure about a Zetec, and many of you have re-inforced that idea, but I think I will probably go for the c20XE redtop - I like to be different! It was also the engine Ben at Luego suggested in the first place. With Zetec as a fall back.

Thanks again, where do I send the tip?!!

Steve.