I am in the very early stages, of planning my build..... and I have a question, regarding choosing an engine.should I go for something traditional like a 1600cc escort MK11(which I've already got), or a Zetec 1600cc, which is in a 1997 ford Fiesta, at the moment...... any comments, for and against..... gratefully recieved..... thanks.:

Hi there, Welcome to the Mad house!

It will help if you put your aproximate location in your profile.

Cant help with the engine, but good luck with the project.

Sounds like a plan to me. Throttle bodies, Megasquirt and a 4-2-1 exhaust should see a resonable power figure.

go the zetec route obver the kent engine. There are an abundance of zetecs out there silvertops and blacktops, all for good money

I think you should go for a Rover T16 turbo engine, good for 220bhp, will suit your bhp needs no problem.

Oh, by the way, I have here for sale...

i'd say neither of the engines you have - whats the point when a 1.8/2.0 Zetec is only going to cost around £100 or so and has a mass of off the shelf parts available to bolt to it such as exhaust and inlet manifolds. I'd say trying to fit your 1.6 engine would cost you a fair bit more in the long run.

Pre August 95 means easier emissions test at IVA but i'd actually say go for as late a 2L Zetec black top as possible and then fit bike throttle bodies and megasquirt (along with a £50-£60 sports catalytic converter). It'll cost more to start with but will pay back in the longer term - economy, stays in tune etc.

[Edited on 14/3/10 by TigerB6 Paul]

mmmm....... certainly a bit to think about, regarding the different engines/ options etc..... thanks very much to you all for the prompt replies..... and watch this space!!:

Some more info on the Zetec SE you have in your Ford Fiasco

clicky linky thing

and the only tuner i know of for the engine

click me - Shawspeed

hence my own recommendation for a 1.8 / 2L Zetec due to the availability of knowledge here, and parts from loads of places