Re-engine a Bedford CF ?

[likaleica]

Hope this is the right place to ask advice on a suitable modern engine and gearbox for my 1983 Bedford CF 250 camper van... I need reliability and economy (NOT performance) and it has to be automatic, and run on petrol because of Bonkers Boris's Low Emission Zone.
I've been pondering sourcing the necessary from a Vauxhall Omega 1.8, 2.0 or 2.2 but they are thirsty.....also BMW E46 318i. Or are there any affordable Japanese rear wheel drivetrains that would be even better ?
All advice gratefully received!

[likaleica]

Thanks for taking the time to contribute some interesting ideas, guys. I will do some research and report back on what I come up with.
Just to clarify, I already run petrol and a simple carb-fed LPG - and even on gas I get as little as 11.9 mpg round town ! I take the point about the cost of an engine swop - but being a pessimist about energy prices and wanting to keep the van long term, I think it may be worth the investment - with greater rel iabilityinto the bargain. Does anyone know if the van would have to pass the MOT emissions test for the transplanted engine, or would the emissions standards remain the same ?

[likaleica]

Hello again and more thanks to those who have given this some thought and expertise.

The van is a CF 1 - and I think the suggestion to go for injection to facilitate a better LPG performance is good advice.

A V8 would be nice but it worries me for its size, its cost in injected form, and the not least the higher cost of insurance.


So I think it is eaither a Vauxhall 2.2 donor car or how about a Ford Scorpio - probably the 2.3 16 V DOHC with auto ?

Any views gratefully received !

[likaleica]

Hi - that would be great but for the high fuel consumption and insurance. I'm aiming for at least 22 - 25 mpg average from a 2.2 or 2.3 litre which I can effectively double with LPG. It should be achievable with the right engine....