In the research phase of my Locost build.

Has anyone tried using the engine/drive train from an old 3 series (I was thinking, about G-reg)? I'm not at all familiar with their mechanics etc. as most of my experience is with the Mk1 MR2.

It's a 4-banger so I'd imagine there would be no length issues .

Just thought that with the dwindling supplies of Mk1 & 2 fords it may be a viable option, the engines (I hear) are pretty good with a decent amount of power.

Would be delighted to chop up a Bimmer as well!

The alternative, 2l Toyota as seen in Mk2 MR2 (non-turbo).

Hi chris,

why not go for the 4-AGE? I also have experience of Mk1 MR2's (one in the garage) and it's what i'm planning to use for my new build.

Excellent engine in this type of car and a ford Type 9 can be mage to fit. RAW Engineering do some interesting bits!

Kelvin

The Bmw M10 is a wonderful engine, the only problem i know of is how to modify the drivetrain to accept a live axle.

Borken

quote:

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Originally posted by Borken
The Bmw M10 is a wonderful engine, the only problem i know of is how to modify the drivetrain to accept a live axle.

Borken

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Good point Kelvin, I have a pair of Mk1 MR2s (one's about to be broken up) so I could use the engine from it.

I was looking for something with a bit more grunt and a donor where I could use the maximum number of bits!

Mackie & Borken, as the 3 series is RWD couldn't I use the rear axle & propshaft from the Beamer? (remember I've not worked on a RWD)

[Edited on 28/7/04 by ChrisJLW]

essentially, all the issues with a seirra are the same for the beemer - but im basing that statement on the current E46 3 series......

it has a semi trailing rear suspension, like sierra.

The think to watch is the width of the engine. If its a 'slant 4' like the current E46, then its canted over and is effectively very wide. Its also particularly wide at the base of the engine where all the belt driven bits are, and thats the narrowest part in a locost engine area.


I posted a pic once in a reply to a similar q about 3 series engines - if you can search and find it you will see what i mean



another point, is that the 318 (at least of 2000 reg) is pretty crappy on power - at 118hp - the 316 is 105hp. Im assuming again that older cars have similar power. In which case you would be no worse off with a 2 litre pinto injection, at 115 out of the box


atb

steve



now, if you can nick an engine from the current 3 series diesel and get it to fit.......150hp and a zillion lbs of torque - be great in a locost. 180 if its chipped - which mine isnt.


[Edited on 28/7/04 by stephen_gusterson]

Chris,


Have U2U'ed you re: the MR2

Kelvin

Got it Kelvin

The M10 is a strong engine, and easy to turbocharge, 125 hp out of a standard 2 litre is not much but the potential is much higher.
And if money is not an issue then buying a sliding propshaft is a simple solution for a live axle.
But i thought we where building locosts??

Borken

Jeesh I get 125hp out of my 4-AGE, with a couple of bolt ons. Looks like that may be the way to go.

I thought the 4AGE gave about 130bhp stock?
It's a 1600cc twin cam is it not?
I'd go with the toyota engine and sierra donor if I was in your position I think

It's more in the region of 120bhp, also remember that Japanese ponies are smaller than everyone elses!

4AGZE is always a good option, 140hp but gobbs of torque down low.