Forgive my total ignorance, but what does "electronic ignition" mean?

I have a totally stalled build (awaiting instructions from the kit maker) and am thinking that a distributor, such as on my toyota 22re, could be replaced by something more efficient when the time comes. I am getting bored painting parts ( have yet to bolt anything on, and have installed the floor). This is about 3 months in.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Does what it says on the tin - surprisingly.
Try HERE for a basic outline.



[Edited on 28/8/07 by daviep]

So I have a distributor with EFI. What can I do, without breaking the bank, to improve things? I am a bit confused by all the different permutations. I know the ECU is to control the fuel mixture, but I'm talking about ignition timing. Is one system good for several applications? Will any of the systems made for 4 cylinder motors work on ANY 4 cylinder engine? Are the Crane Cams systems on Fleabay a good deal? I will need somebody else to hook it all up, I realise. Thanks for the initial info daviep from Fife (isn't that where Ian Rankin is from?)

Isn't MS just a way to control the spark, not provide it per se?

[Edited on 28/8/07 by RK]

MS (mega squirt) controls the fuel injectors and spark timing,

MJ (mega jolt) controls the spark

So the MJ could replace the dizzy?

What exactly is required to replace a distributor? I mean, what wires/boxes/ etc. I know nothing about it, other than a bunch of wires go from the computer to the distributor to the spark plugs (I think).

I have read the Wiki definitions and looked at innumerable web sites on this subject, including how to MS my toyota. Can't make heads or tails of it.

[Edited on 29/8/07 by RK]

200 views and nobody knows any more that I do? Impossible, I say! I have a hell of a lot of work to do before I need to know this, but I can alway start preparing.

My suggestion would be to stay with the existing ignition system until you get the thing built and running. you have a lot of work ahead and you don't want to complicate things at this stage by adding in unknown gizmos.

The MX5, being a relatively-modern car should have an efficient ignition system already and the Megajolt will give you a marginal improvement, if any.

Actually I have a Celica engine (the 22re), not the MX5. I'm just collecting information on the engine stuff; my build is stuck. I can't locate my differential without some help; and my frame maker hasn't responded yet.