V-8 conversion, still can't shake temptation |
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V-8 conversion, still can't shake temptation |
chrisg |
Feb 23 2018, 09:52 PM
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#1
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Member Group: Members Posts: 63 Joined: 20-December 03 From: Paso Robles, CA Member No.: 1,455 Region Association: None |
Probably typical story, but I've had my 914 for quite some time now. I haven't driven my 914 for quite some time now do to the pipe dream of restoring/freshening it up, and then way too much other crap getting on the way. But I'm really trying to make this the year I start the endeavor.
I keep coming back to being tempted into doing a V-8 conversion even after twice as many times of talking myself into leaving it a type 4. Problem #1: I'm just not in love with the VW motor or the cost of having a stout one built. Problem #2: I've never come across a thread post where a V-8 conversion owner is disappointed in having done it. They seem to always come to the same consensus that it is a reasonably painless swap, reliable, and very enjoyable end result. Appeals: effortless torque, reliability, aural bliss (second only to an almighty -6), affordability My thinking is that since I'm going to go through the whole car anyway (with a much desired 5 lug conversion) doing it to accommodate a (mild) V-8 swap, shouldn't be going off the deep end. And, it would kind of kill two birds with one stone and allow me to have a retro Porsche that handles well and is still light weight and a V-8 all wrapped up in one. The point of this post? I'm still not convinced that it's not a "bull in a china shop". Does it retain the proper character of something you want to drive fast and have fun with on twisty back roads? Is the balance thrown off at all? Or should I just stop wasting my time going back and forth and commit to doing it? |
chrisg |
Feb 24 2018, 09:30 PM
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#2
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Member Group: Members Posts: 63 Joined: 20-December 03 From: Paso Robles, CA Member No.: 1,455 Region Association: None |
[quote name='Mueller' date='Feb 24 2018, 05:25 PM' post='2582799']
1st V8 conversion 914 I test drove had a bone stock 2 barrel carb'd all cast iron SBC from a wrecked station wagon. It was a hoot to drive and I guess it barely made 250hp. I could feel the extra weight of it, but after awhile you get used to it. [quote This was my thinking when I started considering the V-8 again. Nothing with crazy hp, just a nice torquey, low stressed package. And I totally understand the "you get used to it" about the weight. I'm beginning to think I really wouldn't find it that disagreeable especially being where it is placed. I can totally relate to that description. It's also kind of why I don't think a gen1 sbc & re-geared 901 wouldn't be a bad way to go. It's a way to start on a smaller budget and upgrade as time and budget allow. name='boxstr' date='Feb 24 2018, 05:33 PM' post='2582802'] I have owned Five V8 powered 914s. I loved each and everyone of them. Lots of power and torque. ..........., but it was the fact that I actually owned and was able to drive a v8 powered 914 that was the most satisfying. Craig at CAMP [/quote] Just adding fuel to the fire! Thanks Craig. |
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