Need advise

I am thinking about buying a 97 talon tsi awd from a guy in town but he`s got the motor completely out of the car takin apart. He says it needs new rods and pistons because he was gonna put better ones in but never got around to it and dont know where the originals are. Was wondering if i should buy it for cheap and buy a new/used engine or just fix that one up with new rods and pistons? Or if i save up enough just buy a stroker kit? Im only 17 dont know a whole lot about these cars but i am in an automotive class at my high school. btw didnt really know where i should post this.

'97 Talons are pretty rare, and are one of the better years. If you can get it cheap and can get someone to finish the job and get it running, go for it. Otherwise it could be a good project car for you if you want to learn.

First off, thanks for making your post readable and in the right spot. You have no idea how nice that is from time to time.

So how cheap is cheap? Let me just say this: DSM's can (and usually are) expensive. If you have a "need for speed" they are the cheapest way there, but you need a little know-how, the drive to know-how, and the willingness to fix shit when it breaks. If you can get it cheap enough, I would either A) buy a running engine or B) have it professionally rebuilt. If you dont have much mechanical experience, I wouldnt recommend rebuilding yourself but in all honesty I think that if you have done a couple brake jobs, a timing belt/head gasket change, and you take your time and do it right you are prepared enough for rebuilding an engine. Thats just my opinion, I am sure there are plenty of people that would disagree with me. Where are you located? I am sure there is a knowledgable DSMer around that can help you out. I would say avoid the stroker unless you are aiming for like 600 hp. Again, thanks for being a good poster. :thumbsup:

EDIT: OOH, second thought. I would get it and get a 6 bolt engine for it. Much stronger stock than the 7 bolt and it doesnt CW like the 7 bolt does.

i agree you cant go wrong geting a 97 talon tsi awd for cheep

well i love the internet and you guys for giving me advice etc. I would rather rebuid it myself to get the experience. i was looking up rods and pistons and they were pretty expensive thats why i brought up the stroker cuz there about 700 bucks more but i thought it might be worth it while it was all apart. I have all school year to do this if i got the car my shop teachers would help out and if i dont finish in time my dad knows about 3 mechanics that would help out i bet, and i needed trouble shooting there are more than enough people here that could help me figure it out.

Gotta love cheap 97 Talons... :rolleyes:


I would buy it and put aftermarket rods and pistons in it and get it back together. They are wonderful cars to drive. I absolutly love mine and I'm sure you will too... You could always just swap a 6 bolt motor into it while its all out and it'll be even better. My 7 bolt motor crankwalked and now I have a project 6 bolt I'm working on. If you really wanna learn more about everything involved in a rebuild of a motor then check out my project thread in my signature.

well thanks for your info you guys. i did go out and get the 97 talon tsi awd and the body is in perfect condition leather is almost brand new except for some spots on drivers seat. and i did get this car for a steal. got it for 1,900 cash.

Nice. Gonna throw a 6 bolt in that bitch?

hopefully. low on funds now. lol