Engine swap?

[ichbintk]

Thinking of getting a mk1 in the future (when insurance is affordable) but want to fit an engine with some power. What would you recommend? Also, is an engine swap (eg:vr6 or 20v turbo) a straightforward job? Finally, what sort of money should i budget for a job like this? I know i will probably need to replace the gearbox to cope but hopefully thats a bit easier.
Cheers in advance

[nefarious]

I've been looking at a 1.8t engine swap into mk1 myself. TSR quote on their website a price of "from" £4750. http://www.tsr-performance.com/pages/transplant.asp

Scary stuff price wise

[ichbintk]

£4k for a 1.8t! No way i could afford that. Is that due to ecu etc needing modifications do you know? Would a vr6 swap be more affordable due to older technology? I forgot to mention that i'd be getting my grandad to do the swap as he used to be a mechanic and enjoys restoring older cars so no labour costs. Cheers Tom

[nefarious]

I would have thought a lot the cost is down to sourcing the engine and transmission. A vr6 is probably too heavy for a mk1, it has been done though. Have you thought a about a 16v swap from a mk2?

[mr ritz]

4 grand for the engine swap don't sound too bad?

these people are professional and are hardly gonna do it for free? but they'll do a spot on job, it'll work when you get in it and they'll offer a degree of aftercare, which a breaker that sold you the 20v turbo for £1500 wont?!!?

consider pricing an engine, gearbox, wiring loom, ecu, drive shafts...  etc etc..

i've put a 16v in my mk1 which is considered an easy conversion and to get it right it costs plenty!!

[VWaxilMK1cab]

I've been looking at a 1.8t engine swap into mk1 myself. TSR quote on their website a price of "from" £4750. http://www.tsr-performance.com/pages/transplant.asp

Scary stuff price wise

You think £5k is dear! JBS charge more like £9k!!!! But they do everything and use top quality parts (including the newer TT engines, they'll even put a TT dash in for you!!!!!) http://www.jbsautodesigns.co.uk/conversions.htm

[ichbintk]

I think i'll leave it and try buy a car with the conversion already done. Thanks for the advice

[bad-vw-boy]

i went for a 2.0 ltr bottom end and a ported 8v with custom exhaust and manifold, total cost £500