Toyota MR2 Message Board - View Single Post

U-235 · 10-02-2007, 05:57 AM

I accidentally got into this dilemma in another section as we drifted off topic...

But here's what I'm looking at. I'm tossing the idea of a 20v or 1ZZ into a mk1 for the sole purpose of building a meatier commuter. I want more than stock power, which obviously either engine will provide. My overall goal is to see how much I can improve the fuel economy over the stock mk1 specs, as well as have a reliable/low maintenance platform. Basically, I opinions of (1) which engine should I use and (2) why? How much could I extend my range with an aftermarket EMS and tunes or an ECU flash of some kind?

Things to consider:

-swap complexity is a minimal issue. Unless you're going to suggest Prius internals. Not gonna happen. =p
-project must cost less than 4000USD.
-My commuting route is NOT VERY conducive to having a manual transmission, so I'm fairly adament on using an AT (I have a mk2 with a stick that's my fun car). Knowing if any newer transmission/axle combos would work aside from the stock AT/axles would be greatly appreciated.

Purpose: mostly, for the sake of doing a swap. However, my goal is to try and squeeze +42mpg out of it. I chose the mk1, other than being win and awesome, for it's lightweight, making it an ideal candidate. And, it will bring down my insurance by over 100USD/mo (my '98 Integra is KILLING me. Sorta).

Alternatives: I've also looked at the Toyota 'C' type engines (for diesel), however, they're a wee bit sparse without ordering a full Corolla front clip from Japan and ultimately... Overbudget, lol. But if any of you have other ideas, I'd be happy to hear them.

Target date to start swap is March-April of '08.

10-02-2007, 05:57 AM	#1 (permalink)
U-235 E=mr2 Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: In the back, where no one sees me. Posts: 339 Thanks: 16 Thanked 6 Times in 6 Posts iTrader Rating: (12/100% )	1zz or 20v? I accidentally got into this dilemma in another section as we drifted off topic... But here's what I'm looking at. I'm tossing the idea of a 20v or 1ZZ into a mk1 for the sole purpose of building a meatier commuter. I want more than stock power, which obviously either engine will provide. My overall goal is to see how much I can improve the fuel economy over the stock mk1 specs, as well as have a reliable/low maintenance platform. Basically, I opinions of (1) which engine should I use and (2) why? How much could I extend my range with an aftermarket EMS and tunes or an ECU flash of some kind? Things to consider: -swap complexity is a minimal issue. Unless you're going to suggest Prius internals. Not gonna happen. =p -project must cost less than 4000USD. -My commuting route is NOT VERY conducive to having a manual transmission, so I'm fairly adament on using an AT (I have a mk2 with a stick that's my fun car). Knowing if any newer transmission/axle combos would work aside from the stock AT/axles would be greatly appreciated. Purpose: mostly, for the sake of doing a swap. However, my goal is to try and squeeze +42mpg out of it. I chose the mk1, other than being win and awesome, for it's lightweight, making it an ideal candidate. And, it will bring down my insurance by over 100USD/mo (my '98 Integra is KILLING me. Sorta). Alternatives: I've also looked at the Toyota 'C' type engines (for diesel), however, they're a wee bit sparse without ordering a full Corolla front clip from Japan and ultimately... Overbudget, lol. But if any of you have other ideas, I'd be happy to hear them. Target date to start swap is March-April of '08.