rx8 VAG 20v motor
Discussion
Kitchski said:
Although the spirit of the RX-8 revolves around the rotary lump, I can understand wanting to switch with conventional lumps in pursuit of durability. Like the RX-8 too.
But christ I'd have gone for something with a bit more 'zing.' Those 20v lumps are just so dull!
I take it you've never been in a tuned one?But christ I'd have gone for something with a bit more 'zing.' Those 20v lumps are just so dull!
PhillipM said:
Power doesn't stop them being a little dull, they never seem to be all that willing to rev out for some reason, just sound a little strained.
They aren't a 10k VTEC!The KKK turbos don't like having the crap wrung out of them, change the turbo and it's a different story, i'm going GT28 on mine, a friend runs one in a MK2 and it's an animal.
JB! said:
PhillipM said:
Power doesn't stop them being a little dull, they never seem to be all that willing to rev out for some reason, just sound a little strained.
They aren't a 10k VTEC!The KKK turbos don't like having the crap wrung out of them, change the turbo and it's a different story, i'm going GT28 on mine, a friend runs one in a MK2 and it's an animal.
JB! said:
Kitchski said:
Although the spirit of the RX-8 revolves around the rotary lump, I can understand wanting to switch with conventional lumps in pursuit of durability. Like the RX-8 too.
But christ I'd have gone for something with a bit more 'zing.' Those 20v lumps are just so dull!
I take it you've never been in a tuned one?But christ I'd have gone for something with a bit more 'zing.' Those 20v lumps are just so dull!
Don't think I'm knocking the project though - alot of work goes into a conversion like that.
Kitchski said:
Yeah I've been in a couple including an S3 running around 400bhp. Engine just makes such a flat noise, power delivery is really flat too. Don't get me wrong, for pootling to the shops it's probably fine. It's just a bit...uninspiring. I think if German is the requirement I'd have gone BMW six (if it would fit) otherwise a Jap V6 of some sort - try and keep weight distribution as close to the rotary as possible.
Don't think I'm knocking the project though - alot of work goes into a conversion like that.
I think its a perfect match, parts readily available, massive tuning potential and nowhere near as heavy as a I6 BMW lump.Don't think I'm knocking the project though - alot of work goes into a conversion like that.
Dont get me wrong I have a 330 and love the silky smooth delivery, but think the VAG 1.8t is a better bet in an RX8
chuntington101 said:
The problem with the VR6 or R32 engines is they have cast iron blocks and weigh a lot!
They aren't cast Iron!!!The VR series engines, both 12 and 24v are alloy blocks.
Kitchski said:
Yeah I've been in a couple including an S3 running around 400bhp. Engine just makes such a flat noise, power delivery is really flat too. Don't get me wrong, for pootling to the shops it's probably fine. It's just a bit...uninspiring. I think if German is the requirement I'd have gone BMW six (if it would fit) otherwise a Jap V6 of some sort - try and keep weight distribution as close to the rotary as possible.
Don't think I'm knocking the project though - alot of work goes into a conversion like that.
S3's aren't exactly light. My mate's 230bhp K03s powered MK2 will make light work of even a mapped one.Don't think I'm knocking the project though - alot of work goes into a conversion like that.
It's a great engine, with better breathing, lighter flywheel and the right ratios it'll be perfect for a tuneable reliable RX8.
JB! said:
They aren't cast Iron!!!
The VR series engines, both 12 and 24v are alloy blocks.
JB, from what i have seen the earlier VR blocks are cast iron. Form the looks of the link below the R32 is iron also! The VR series engines, both 12 and 24v are alloy blocks.
http://www.tuningworld.com.au/gallery/2012/03/27/v...
half way down good picture of engine with what looks like rubst all over it. Also there looks to be no liners used which is another indication that the blocks are iron.
Happy to be wrong though!
Chris.
chuntington101 said:
JB, from what i have seen the earlier VR blocks are cast iron. Form the looks of the link below the R32 is iron also!
http://www.tuningworld.com.au/gallery/2012/03/27/v...
half way down good picture of engine with what looks like rubst all over it. Also there looks to be no liners used which is another indication that the blocks are iron.
Happy to be wrong though!
Chris.
You may well be right, alloy heads, dunno why I got it in my head they were alloy blocked too http://www.tuningworld.com.au/gallery/2012/03/27/v...
half way down good picture of engine with what looks like rubst all over it. Also there looks to be no liners used which is another indication that the blocks are iron.
Happy to be wrong though!
Chris.
I'm trying to find the VAG engine weights table as there isn't alot between the 20vt's and the 6cyls, the gearboxes are noticeably heavier though!
I would not try and get 350bhp from a standard 1.8t rods are the weak point in these engines. for peace of mind they're well worth doing. I've used Integrated Engineering con rods and JE Pistons, INA engineering offer a good package price for these two. Calico coated big end bearings are also rated 
Feel free to ask questions regarding the 1.8t engine, I've built up mine and it runs over 400bhp.
Happy building.
Joe
Feel free to ask questions regarding the 1.8t engine, I've built up mine and it runs over 400bhp.
Happy building.
Joe
This is interesting to me.
I was thinking about a cheaper engine-swap project, for after I've sold the LS2 RX7. (Oh yeah, anyone wanna buy? £12k ish).
I want to do something cheap and with a nice gearbox and a bit newer (less creaks and squeaks).
I was looking at RX8s just the other day but didn't have any thoughts for what to transplant in.
I think I'd definitely be interested in your kits Craig (flywheel, etc.), in the future.
I was thinking about a cheaper engine-swap project, for after I've sold the LS2 RX7. (Oh yeah, anyone wanna buy? £12k ish).
I want to do something cheap and with a nice gearbox and a bit newer (less creaks and squeaks).
I was looking at RX8s just the other day but didn't have any thoughts for what to transplant in.
I think I'd definitely be interested in your kits Craig (flywheel, etc.), in the future.
Edited by carl0s on Thursday 30th August 18:18
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