Cable operated Gearboxes

[JonLeeper]

A quick question for all the gurus in this forum. I am seriously being tempted to change direction with my project and need to know which FWD cars are running with cable operated gearboxes, makes a mid-mount much easier. I am really looking for a decent, tuneable, engine that will not cost the earth; the only example that I can think of, off the top of my head, is the Volvo T5. This meets all the criteria but I was wondering if there were any other choices that people could suggest.

Many thanks,

Jon

[splatspeed]

think honda do

[grahambell]

Pretty sure the Mk2 MR2 engine/box are same as those in the FWD Celica, and the MR2 has cable change, so worth a look. MR2 cable set-up has been used in mid-engined kit cars.

Can't remember now what sort of gear linkage the Phantom uses, but that too uses the Rover 827/Honda V6 so might be worth asking the Phantom owners on here (ricola and aprisa) about it. See www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=342500&f=30&h=0

[wildoliver]

all the modern alfa's do.

[thong]

boxster/996

[RazMan]

My V6 Duratec uses the MTX75 transaxle. The engine is good for 200bhp in standard form and the cable operated box is very strong - Noble use this combination with twin turbos and get around 350bhp iirc.
If you need any info give me a shout

[JonLeeper]

A bit more information, as it might help! I am rebuilding an Eagle SS which is based on a VW Beetle chassis. I have had to strengthen the chassis, as I wanted to raise the body, with a 80x40 mm steel box section. I was going to fit a Honda 2.7 v6 to the original VW gearbox but have seen someone else who has simply taken a Volvo T5 engine and slotted it in the back to make it mid-engined. This has got me thinking that this would make a far better conversion, as it solves a lot of problems of weight, gearbox strength etc. I have about 370 – 380 mm of space at the axle centreline and plenty above this for the engine, and as I said I know that the T5 lump fits. This limits the gearboxes to longitudinal as a transaxle will not fit, I don’t think! The only real criterion is the cable operated gear change as it solves a lot of problems fixing the gear linkage, unless someone has a bright idea about this as well! I could go with the T5 but was wondering if there are any other options to consider before I go engine hunting.

Many thanks,

Jon

[wildoliver]

Have you considered a boxster engine and box?

I would think they would fit as the wheelbase of the boxster will be similar, mid engined, strong six speed box, and plenty of power.

[fwdracer]

Mondeo/X-Type Ford/Jaguar V6 uses Cable operated MTX75 boxes...

Edited by fwdracer on Thursday 15th March 09:26

[Mikey G]

My Citroen Xantia 2 litre turbo is a cable operated box aswell, Based on the BE3 i think seen in other FWD Peugeot Citroens.