Classic mini tuning

[Iain83]

Hi there,

I am looking at tuning a classic Mini to around 180 bhp, and wondered what I should be looking out for?
I ahve found some for 4k look alright but these cars are old, and would apreciate some heads up on what to look out for, and what needs to be done.
rust? handling?
Can it even take this power sensibly, cause the originals didn't even do 60..lols not to mention crashing at modern speeds...

Retaining the original block is obviously going to keep the classic value, but how can I sensibly get this much power from the engine without modifying it extensivlely. It would be very hard and expensive, headwork, forged rods pistons etc. - supercharger?

So I figured an engine swap would be ideal, considered a 1.2 TSI motor (£950 from ebay) as they should be similar in weight and for that cost, cheaper than modifying, probably more economical as well - but you loose the character of the mini somewhat :/

Is aiming for 5 seconds 0-60 projected 125-135.
Just trying to get an idea of what needs to be done and is looking at 4k, for the mods atm

thanks

Iain

[Furyblade_Lee]

For your budget, I'd be looking at a Rover K series VVC conversion. 170bhp easily and it's a light engine, and cheap. But be aware you will need to upgrade the rest of the car or it will be a tad dangerous to say the least . Brakes, suspension, 6 point cage and seats/ harnesses. I'd say you would need £6-8K to do a proper job, depends if you can fabricate things yourself or need to buy the bits. Good luck, I'd love a VVC mini, cracking engines despite the reputation.