The donor car came with a 1800 CVH and it would make life easy if I were to fit this and change it if nessessary at a later date. From what I have read the head seems to be the biggest problem. I am not clear if a 1600 head does go on and if so which one is best. Is anyone else using this engine?

Cheers

Ian.

did this to chris w,s engine,the pistons are different giving you lower compression but you get to fit injection and a decent ignition system for peanuts.
check compression ratio,if too low change pistons to 1600 cvh.

I have been offered a complete XR2 for next to nothing with a good engine. Is it possible to fit this head onto the rwd 1800 or shoud I use the complete 1600 xr2 engine.

dificult one that,the head will fit but you will have to change pistons or have low compression or fit the 1600 and have agg with alternator and engine mount,or sell it to me

Will the 1800 take standard 1600 pistons or are they something special?

you would have to check with an engine builder on that 1 as the comp is low how bout slapping on a turbo?