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? |
Cracker |
Feb 24 2018, 07:00 AM
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#2
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Advanced Member Group: Members Posts: 2,148 Joined: 2-February 10 From: Atlanta (area) Member No.: 11,316 Region Association: South East States |
For a street-only-hot-rod the swap is a no brainer! I have described the end product with something factory-like - if Porsche had the balls and technology back in the day. Here is the catch though...you get out of a swap what you put into it and pinching pennies is not advised. If you have 15k to invest into the package plus your own labor - do it. If you are not THAT committed - I would suggest you do not move forward. Simple as that...
I would install a stock LS1 (300-350 hp) and stick with the fuel injection - the 901 will be perfectly happy with this engine combo as well. I hope you finally get off the fence and jump in head first. You will not regret it! PS: One more thought...what makes the combo so amazingly enjoyable is the torque; horsepower is great but without the associated abundance of torque it is just like a six. The same goes for any other small displacement motor, new or old.. Tony |
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