These Engine Swaps Dream Builders Want: Jalopnik Readers’ Bold Ideas
Familiar Paths, Ambitious Builds
Some of the proposed swaps follow established routes, with parts and guidance available. One reader named a K-swap Lotus Elise, an RB26-powered Datsun 240Z and a rotary Miata as projects they would like to take on.
Other suggestions included a K24 in a Fiat X1/9 and an LS6 in a Porsche 944. The writer described both as common enough to have aftermarket support, while noting that real track-car swaps involve more than checking whether an engine fits between the frame rails.
A Morgan With Miata Power
One reader imagined putting a Miata’s 2-liter engine and six-speed transmission into a Morgan 4/4. The proposed combination would have about 2.5 times the Morgan’s stock horsepower and a total weight roughly 40 percent below a Miata’s.
The writer said the swap could bring new life to the Morgan while retaining a different style from the Miata. The suggestion stood out as an unconventional but appealing pairing.
More Unusual Combinations
Another idea paired a Triumph Spitfire with a Rocket 3 engine. The writer noted that the motorcycle is already shaft-driven and suggested a custom driveshaft could connect the setup to the Spitfire’s differential in a front-engine, rear-drive arrangement.
A reader also proposed replacing an air-cooled flat-six with an early Nissan Leaf powertrain, arguing that owners should choose what makes them happy. The piece presented the idea as a matter of personal preference rather than a conventional build.
A Cosworth Vega Fantasy
One reader pictured a 1971–73 Vega GT fitted with the 2.0-liter, double-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine and five-speed transmission from a 1975–76 Cosworth Vega. The reader recalled a dark blue 1971 Vega and said driving it on back roads helped spark an interest in sports cars.
The writer judged this likely the easiest swap among the ideas, provided the owner already had an early Vega and could find a Cosworth engine. The proposed result would pair the earlier car’s lighter, more nimble character with added power.
Key points
- Readers suggested swaps ranging from established projects to unusual custom builds.
- Ideas included a Miata-powered Morgan 4/4 and a Rocket 3-powered Spitfire.
- A reader proposed fitting a Cosworth Vega engine into an early Vega GT.
- The writer invited readers to share more dream engine swaps.