That is not ugly it is custom. There is a big difference.
In reply to maschinenbau :
Awesome. No way that one spent much time in Indiana, it doesn't have enough rust on it.
In my research for an optimal engine donor for the Datsun $2018 Challenge Wagon, I have computed a bunch of power:weight ratios for potential engine swaps. In every swap, I removed the weight of original engine, and assumed a 100 lb weight penalty from upgrading the rear axle to an 8.8, so that is factored in to vehicle weight. I am assuming I can make up any weight gain from trans swap by lightening the car in other ways.
Engine weights are to be taken with a big grain of salt, since most are from forums. And all power figures are advertised engine, not whp. Let me know if any of these numbers sound unreasonable. Also let me know what's missing from this list and I can add it. But it looks like if I want to stay N/A, which I do, a later model Inifiniti G35 would be the best donor. Most years of G35 get me into a good power:weight ratio, while keeping overall weight low for handling.
That VG30DETT line is from a nearby GRMer who is LS swapping his 300ZX, removing and selling a dyno-proven 285 whp V6 (scaled up for driveline losses).
Edit: Updated with highest weight I've seen mentioned for VQ35, supposedly fully dressed with accessories
In reply to maschinenbau :
Is a VQ really only 340lbs? I wonder if I could fit one in the rally car...
It does seem fishy. I have seen numbers as high as 375 lbs for a fully dressed VQ and as low as 270 lbs for a bare long block with no intake manifold. My wagon won't run power steering or A/C, so maybe 340 lbs is about right.
Well, it would seem the Honda j weighs 550 with all accessories, manual trans and axles, so 340 for the Nissan contemporary Nissan seems at least ballpark.
No link but search for the Honda engine weights article by super street.
In reply to maschinenbau :
Shoot me a text when you are going to start working on it, I'll help if I work it out time wise and I can bring the cameras with me to help document.
I am planning to host a parking-lot-style build weekend later in spring, like Robbie did with his Saab ute. Epic times will be had!
Let's use this running list of $2018 Wagon Class competitors to keep us all accountable:
Who am I missing?
In reply to maschinenbau :
If I can find a camper top and keep it in budget :)
There's a GC chassis Outback Sport near my neighborhood that has been sitting for a few months ever since the owners bought a newer Impreza hatch. I'm getting tempted to stick a note under the windshield, and see if they are interested in selling...
In reply to eastsideTim :
I know someone who has a topper being used as a storage shed near you. Could be had very budget friendly. PM me if interested .
In reply to Stampie :
My GRM account is linked to a Yahoo email address. Can you please email me at ohiotim at Hotmail
Ashyukun (Robert) said:I should try and track down/build a cheap camper top for the Rampage. :P
Yeah, is that all I have to do for the Saab?
Just find a Saab wagon in the junkyard and cut the roof off.
Then figure out how to make latches to quickly attach or remove it.
Not me unfortunately. The Opel would not have been done in time with the amount of work it needs so I have been working on other projects and plan to do that one over the winter for next years challenge.
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