Seeking advice / opinions on engine . 1.8 ->? Options

[bob's project]

Hello All,


I am soliciting opinions on what route I should take this with a project.


I have an all original 74 1.8l car. I had the opportunity last night or purchase a 1974 2.0l engine out of a car including all the injection, harness, ECU....


I now have many interesting options.


1) Convert my car to a stock 2.0l spec to the level it came that way from the factory. (Would this add value to my car?)
2) Upgrade my long block and run the original L-jet. (This is the discreet performance option)
3) Upgrade the 2.0 to something beyond original spec. (This could be really fun?)


I am trying to navigate these these thoughts simultaneously?


1) I usually am always committed to keeping things 100% stock but a bit more HP over the 1.8 would be nice. Is 15hp enough?
2) If I am rebuilding an engine entirely is there a recipe for the defacto fun engine that is reliable and good performing?
3) I absolutely will run L or D jet.


If anyone is willing to share their thoughts I would appreciate it. I am looking forward to the discussion and planning this next winter's project. I have never looked forward to cold, wet, dark west coast winters but this coming one will be fun.


Thanks in advance!

[jcd914]

Several unknowns here.
What is the overall condition of both engines?
Does one or the other need to be rebuilt?
What budget for engine work do you have?

The stock 2.0 if it is in good running condition is plug and play with the D-jet and is a nice power and drivability boost over the 1.8.

The stock 2.0 with the L-jet would also be a nice boost but requires some modifications to get the L-jet installed.

If you are concerned about long term value without the original engine then set aside the original 1.8 for originality. Install the 2.0 and D-jet. Or build the 2.0 into a 2056cc while driving the 1.8.

I have 2 engines for my car and have some of the same decisions.
I have a 1.7 built to 1904cc according to the PO but I don't have specs except he said he increased the stroke and use stock bore of the 1.7. it is not plug and play right now, needs wiring and fuel lines and possibly tuning of the MS FI

I also have a blueprinted "stock" 2.0 that is plug and play with headers.
I know how it runs and what to expect from it.

I plan to go with the 2.0 for now and look into the 1904cc engine.
Maybe I'll put bigger pistons on the longer stroke crank that is in it, if there is a longer stroke crank in it.

Jim