Hello,

I've been looking into potential engines for a mid engined project. I started off by thinking about using a Puma engine and gearbox but thinking about more power I started we looking into Duratecs and Duratec v6. In doing so I've come across the first generation Mazda 6 that came with 2.0 or 2.3 engines that a similar to the Duratec. The cars like to rust and can be had for a similar price to a mk3 Mondeo.

So far I've discovered that the 2.0 first came with 139bhp v the mondeos 145bhp and apparently has a weaker crank than the Ford units. The facelift 2.0 came with 150bhp and started being called the MZR which I'm assuming is similar to the NC mx5.

I like the idea of the 2.3 as it seems a cheap and easy way to a 166bhp Duratec but some say they prefer the 2.0. So far I've learned that the Mazda is called the L3VE and has VVT, easily removable balance shafts and a variable inlet. Some say to get rid of the VVT but I think it's similar to the Ford VCT that can be controlled after further mods using an aftermarket ECU. Saying that Id initially be happy with 166bhp and am planning on using the Mazda ECU anyway.

Does anyone know anything else about these engines and any significant differences that have compared to the Ford units?

Im also struggling to find information on the manual gearboxes that were used with these engines. All I've found is that the 6 speed is stronger but I'd like to know ratios and 'box weights etc. I've discovered they come with a single mass flywheel compared to the Mondeos DMF which is a bonus.

Cheers, Dai

The strongest box is the 2.3 turbo MPS box it can take 300 bhp+ and has a limited slip diff as standard. I believe the later slippers are electronically controlled. The gearing is high I think I worked it out for 180 mph+ and the bellhousing pattern is the same as a duratec. The MPS box was a dual mass flywheel so the clutch mechanism would need modifying for a ford flywheel. I used a st150 flywheel with a helix uprated pressure plate and a focus 1.8 uprated centre plate. A spigot bearing from ford fits which was a pinto/ escort item iirc.

A change of plan / direction, means my gearbox is now surplus to requirements if you are interested.

Thanks for the reply. I've discovered the mid engined section on the LocostUSA forum so it looks like I'll never see sunlight ever again. I've discovered the two pot goal boxes have the following ratios and final drives:

3.31, 1.84, 1.23, 0.91, 0.73 Final Drive: 4.11 only boots to 4 cylinder
3.15, 1.84, 1.26, 0.95, 0.73 Final Drive: 4.13

I think the main plus is that Mazda 6 can be picked up for about £400 and come with engine, box and a solid flywheel. No LSD though and they can cope with the power I'm considering. The same topic states that the Mazda boxes are shorter and lighter than the MTX75 too.

No I just need to banish thought of Audi transaxles out of my thoughts.