Why is the Duratec More Popular than Other FWD Engines?

[Johnny5hoods]

Thinking of building a kit car, and something baffles me. Perhaps some of you learned folk can enlighten me.

I understand the Zetec's popularity as a kit car donor engine, as it bolts straight on to RWD Ford gearboxes. But it was the last in a long line of Ford engines to do so. The Duratec doesn't: it requires a special bellhousing, just like engines by any other FWD manufacturers (of which there are many). Zetec donor vehicles haven't been produced since 2004, and the supply of new engines on ebay can't last forever. So it's only natural to look for a successor. But how come the Duratec is becoming the next in line (pun not intended!) to take over when the Zetecs dry up? I mean, it's not RWD, it's not especially powerful nor charismatic. And, from what I read on the various web forums, it's an expensive installation.

So, by what merit does the Duratec engine deserve the continued loyalty of the kit car community? Why shouldn't Ford's predominance end here? Given that it doesn't match the Sierra bellhousing, what's the advantage of the Duratec over any other FWD engine?

[Johnny5hoods]

MX5 gearboxes - that's worth knowing. I think you're the first person who's ever told me that. Which leads me on to another couple of questions:

1. Which box? NA, NB or NC? Just the 2.0 box or the 1.8 too?

2. How much power and torque will an MX5 box take in a lightish (600-650 KG) kit car?

Thanks.

[Johnny5hoods]

Many thanks to everyone for all of the above replies. John