Hello, I'm thinking about how I want to upgrade my MX5's performance. I've considered other engine swaps and also a turbo. I think it would be really cool to have the 2.0L inline 6 engine from an is200 and they're not too powerful for an mx5 and would have a really nice sound. Also you can get turbo kits for the engine as well. Does anyone know how challenging it would be to fit one and if it would fit? I don't mind cutting and welding in the engine bay as I have a fair bit of welding experience. Thank you. {}
If i'm honest i wouldn't bother with a straight 6 in an mx5. I would stick to engine that are no longer than 4 cylinders. So straight 4, v6 or v8. The 350z v6 would be a cool swap or a lot are using the 4.0 v8 Toyota engines. People like Nev @ driftmoto make full conversion kits.
If you want about 150bhp, wadge a vvt engine in from a mk2.5. A whole lot easier, it'll fit in without lots of buggering about and the only ballache is the wiring. If you're brave and don't mind the risk of bending bits and bobs, you can turbo that engine and end up with something fast, but still minimal effort.
1GF-FE VVTI -160 bhp @6,200 rpm,148 ft·lbf @4,400, ~180kg BP-Z3 - 146 bhp @6,500, 124 ft·lbf @5,000 ~140kg It's not worth it for 14bhp and 24ft·lbf torque to gain 40kg before you throw a turbo at it, especially as that weight is going forward. As others have mentioned, best getting yourself a turbo or a decent 1.8 VVT engine....or both RWD conversions of VR6s are becoming more popular, maybe look into that for something different and compact.
Thanks for the reply. The 350z engine is a good engine to consider. I'm just thinking about how that would affect the weight and 50:50 distribution. I would love to fit an inline 6, would it be a hassle because of how long it is? And is it even possible to fit an engine that long?
