914/6 vs. 914/4 AX Performance, Heated Disscussion Within Options

[Britain Smith]

I know this guy...he is looking to purchase a 914...wants to be really fast on the AX course...and can't decide between an original 6 (or conversion) w/ 2.7L (or some sort of uprated motor) or a Raby (or similar) four cylinder.

Putting the discussion on equal playing grounds, lets say that both chassis are identical, which would be faster on the AX course? This is assuming a well built chassis, with a cage, upgraded suspension, hoosiers (or similar) tires, etc.

For AX purposes, my vote would go for the 4-cylinder car all the way. I have my reasons, but I want to hear yours first...so which is it?

-Britain

[Britain Smith]

Well, this discussion got a little out of hand...but I expected that.

Andy hit it right, I am asking about equally prepared cars. Basically, take a well prepared chassis like I mentioned (hoosiers, sorted suspension, cage, etc.) and do a sway between a hopped-up 2.7L six and compare it to a Raby-prepared 2.3L. Lets say that both engines put out a healthy 200ft-lbs of torque. In this case both cars would be the same weight, minus engine. Granted, there will be a few suspension set-up differences between the different engine configurations, but leave that out for this discussion. Now...which set-up would have the upper hand?

Also, how much does a hopped-up 2.7L engine cost to have built? IIRC, it is in the same price range as a Raby engine (7K-12K)...someone correct me if I am wrong.

You can look at AX results all day long, but if the competition didn't show up then your results are null. In other words, showing that you are TTOD at a certain autocross is not really that valid unless there is a car there that is comparable to yours to compete against. Heck, my 1.7L basically stock teener took top-5 or so at the last two AX events here...

-Britain