westfield engine question

[mhibbins]

I was going to build a locost but it looks like I'm not going to have time thanks to me new daughter. So I'm thinking about buying a second hand westfield to have some fun with. I've seen a few 2.1 pinto cars for around 5.5k which seem pretty reasonable. If I buy one of these cars can I change the engine for something more fiery should I feel the need at a later date? I assume I'm stuck with whatever axle I buy but can I change the engine to say a cosworth 2.0l turbo or fireblade with a bit of work (engine mounts, prop-shaft, fuel pump, loom etc)?

Thanks for any advice,

Mark

[stig]

Yep. You'll probably have to mess about with the engine mounts and you'll definitely need a new prop, but pretty much enything can be shoe-horned in.

Personally, I think it's pointless overpowering the car (Cossie for example). I'd go with a Rover K-series and tune it as funds allow.

After all, if it's good enough for the Superlights!!!

PS. Get rid of the Pinto - it's a boat anchor by comparison!

[mhibbins]

If the pinto is too heavy would a 1600/1700 x-flow be a better place to start? Or maybe a vauxhall 16v as there are a few of those about too.

For example this caught my eye in autotrader...

1988 WESTFIELD 1600 PRE-LITIGATION SE7
1988 Full aluminum body, with yellow nose & brg arches. 1600 X-flow engine / RS 2000 gearbox.Full leather interior & wet weather kit. 5371 miles. £5249

...and it looks absolutely stunning. If it has a live-axle (which I'm told is better for circuit and sprint stuff) and they are as adaptable as you say then this sort of thing looks ideal to play with for the remainder of the summer and upgrade over the winter.

Thanks,

Mark

>> Edited by mhibbins on Thursday 18th July 12:07

[ginettag27]

I've got to say that I agree with Stig, I've seen loads of people shoe-horning a V8 into G27s, Westies and Dax's - why?? I would think that a 2.0l litre zetec is more than enough engine for that size of car.. I used to have a 2.0 litre Pinto in my '27, which sounded simply excellent - especially with a rear exit exhaust! but when it blew up... tried to change to a 2.0 litre Zetec, but got talked round to a 1.8... with 45 DCOEs.. and now a Dunnell 3D EMU, it's got more than enough power!! Although I would also agree that the K series engines are excellent fun and good value - friends of mine have had the 1.4, 1.6 and 1.8 variants.. The most interesting ones seem to be those with the six speed boxes attached!! Pulls in all gears and has a more economical 6th!! simply brilliant.

Plus of course with a bigger engine you need better brakes, etc...

PS