Project MV8R a V8 into a 1991-1999 MR2

[cbulen]

I participate mainly in the a MR2 forum that does not have content spidered by Google, so you won't see any of the info there pop up on Google searches. As a result, many of you might not be aware of my project.

I am introducing, to you all, Project MV8R (named after the SARD MC8R LeMans MR2)

The gist of the project is a Northstar V8 + GM F40 6 speed manual tranny, and hybrid GM + MR2 axles.

Yup, a V8 MR2 engine swap, on a generation 2 (1991 to 1995(usa) to 1999(rest of the world))!

I have a 1993 turbo (my turquoise car) that will eventually get this powerplant after I get the bugs worked out. I am using a 1991 (red) MR2 as my test mule. My 93T is in beautiful condition, and my 91na is...........not



I know it has been suggested on this forum, as well as MANY MANY others that a 1UZ-FE v8 from a lexus should be used. This is impractical for many many reasons. The biggest reason is that it is simply too long to fit sideways into the 2nd gen chassis (and probably the first gen too). The front pulley would have to be inside of the tire. It just ain't gonna happen, folks.

Actually, it could, but only if you want to build a whole tube frame for the rear of the car, and re-engineer the whole back of the car.

I decided to take a different approach. I wanted to do it an easier way. I went and tried to find an engine that would fit the mk2. I found one, the Audi 4.2 V8 (ABZ engine code), but found this engine was not suitable mainly because it was never offered in a transverse application, so Audi inconveniently put the block skirt, the starter, the oil pump, the oil pump drive, etc. in the way of the intermediate shaft and right axle.

So, I decided to use the Cadillac Northstar N*). This is an ongoing project. The N* now fits the car (a bit of cutting was required, but not as much as you might think). I know you might think I am using the N* because Bill did www.v8mr2.com but acutally, its a coincidence (remember I actually bought an Audi V8 first, and I still have the damn thing). The Fiero guys figured out that there is a very strong (high torque rating) 6 speed manual transaxle that bolts up to the Northstar without an adaptor! The N* is a very short V8. ITs only 23.5 inches from bellhousing to front pulley bolt head! Chevy LS1 is 29 inches I think. The Audi I tried to use is 20.6 inches.

The MR2 turbo engine -- 3S-GTE is 20 inches. SO you see why I tried the Audi first. Too bad it didn't work.

______
CBulen
My V8 swap into a 1991 and 1993 Toyota MR2
Project MV8R: Sign up for free newsletter

[ac427cpe]

Looks like a fun project! Good luck!

[cbulen]

Motor is now mounted in the car. I fabbed mounts for this swap.

Working on clutch now. Then intermediate shaft support bearing block. Then axles. Then exhuast. Then computer........THen turbo

[PeterGrave5]

woot unto you my friend....that is some serious fabbing and work you have decided to undertake and to you brave sir, i salute.... there has to be an mr2 with a N* running on a track, its the marriage of high end american motor technology and high end japanese chasis engineering.

[eckoman_pdx]

I've been keeping tabs on this build here and a few other places. I love the idea. I'd love to try it myself, but I honestly don't have the skill to fab up and cut everything needed to do that.

Props though. It looks like one heck of a build. Good luck sorting out that clutch/flywheel thing with the F40 trans/Northstar combo.

From what I read you post, it sounds like they are working with you in an effort to make it a production piece for other MR2/Fiero owners who do this swap?

The Northstar on boost will be a beast.

Do you have any better or recent pics of the project you can post up in here?

Any more pics and info would be great, and they would give you a nice place for people googling to find info via searching.

If you don't mind, I would like to quote some info/pics you have posted from the other board and post it here too