Which engine? Subaru 2.5 STI/Subaru 3.0/Honda j35/ Honda k24, Building a weekend/track car, help me pick the engine Options

[rupert14]

I am trying to decide which engine to swap into my 914. In the past I put a honda J35 in a baja bug and it would roast 33" tires all day long. It was a great engine for a baja bug. I have a local shop that is pushing me toward a subaru 2.5L STI turbo motor. I have also read about very happy owners of 3.0 flat six suby engines in the 914. A buddy of mine that runs NASA has a k24 in his car that puts almost 250hp to the ground with just cams. The good part about the k24 is that it is light.

I plan to just use it as a fun weekend car and once a month or so on track here in AZ for HPDE4. I am currently running a 2001 BMW 330ci at the track but I also have a speck e30 and a few street e30's. I want to be around 300hp (stock J35 is 300hp/300tq) and I am ok swapping the trans if necessary. My trans was recently gone through at a Mr. Evil gathering and is a strong side shift.

I realize many of you have more experience than me with these engines so what is your vote? I will be adding a wide body and the fattest tires I can stuff in there.

1. Subaru 2.5 turbo STI motor
2. Subaru EZ30R 3.0 six
3. Honda j35 V6
4. Honda k24 inline 4

[Chris914n6]

Things to consider...

The stock 914 trans is maxed out at 300hp/300tq and you can't be hard/reckless with it.
The Subaru trans is stronger and more modern, so that is a benefit with the Subaru motors.

That FastHonda K24 car is for sale in the classifieds. There is also a build thread here.

The Honda J35 is compact but still kinda big, same as my vq35de. Had to trim sheetmetal to fit.

So back to the Subaru 2.5L. Fits pretty well. Usually better to start with a WRX and build up as the STI is pricey. It's also a popular conversion with many build threads and suppliers to use.