Engine conversion choices.

[stainesy]

Ok the time has come to do an engine conversion in my 1985 jetta. Iv never done an engine conversion before apart from in beetles bay windows and slitties. So my first time on water cooled.
What would be the best engine and easiest for more power and reliability plus not stupid on fuel.
Currently a 1.6 with weber carb.

[JC]

you have to work with the older spec wiring

3 main common choices

ABF 2litre 16v

VR6

1.8T

or if you want economy - and a harder conversion then TDi it

 

[stainesy]

Sod the diesel 
Out of them 3 witch would be easiest?
Also what do I do engine mount wise? Do I have to fabricate mount brackets or do I just buy ones? And witch ones do I use?

[Dave-iow]

no fabrication needed for abf or 1.8t.

1.8t , more tuneable, quicker and imo better conversion (having now done both)

[Wayne]

I would go for the ABF for ease of conversion plus it is a engine that suits the mk2 really well.

[thai-wronghorse]

More importantly what's the budget and timescale?

[luke]

If you want something half decent on fuel don't get a vr6 lump, 150 miles to a full tank 

[stainesy]

Timescale don't matter to much as I'm buying a family car so the jetta will be put on garage ready for engine and brakes conversion. Not looking at spending stupid money tho.

[Lewy]

If you want something half decent on fuel don't get a vr6 lump, 150 miles to a full tank 

Bollox!

I've  had 12v and 24v and I could easily get 350 out of both.

[stainesy]

So engine mount wise on 1.8t and abf how does it work? Do the engine mounts off them engines fit strait onto my car? Also what about the drive shafts? And front hubs? I want to stay 4 stud.