Engine Swaps Are Getting Interesting

Summary

In this episode of Donut, the hosts explore exciting engine swap options for classic cars, featuring the versatile Ford EcoBoost, lightweight BMW N52, and robust GM LFX V6. They discuss unique swaps like the Audi 2.7L V6 in Porsches and the durable Volkswagen 07K engine, highlighting their performance benefits and aftermarket support. The LS series is praised as the go-to for engine swaps due to its affordability and power, while the Ecotec engine is noted for its versatility. The episode encourages creativity in swaps, reminding viewers that the origins of an engine shouldn’t limit their imaginative builds.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Ford EcoBoost 2.3L engine is a reliable turbocharged four-cylinder producing 330 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, making it a great option for engine swaps.
• 🚗 The BMW N52 is a lightweight 6-cylinder engine with 250 hp, known for its extensive aftermarket support and compatibility with vintage cars.
• 💪 The GM LFX 3.6L V6 engine offers 323 hp and is versatile enough to fit in smaller cars, making it an attractive swap choice for performance enthusiasts.
• 🔧 The Audi 2.7L V6 engine can be swapped into Porsche Boxsters and 911s, providing a significant performance boost and greater reliability than the stock engines.
• ⚙️ The Volkswagen 07K 2.5L 5-cylinder engine is robust and turbo-friendly, suitable for swaps in older cars with good aftermarket support available.
• 👑 LS engines from GM are renowned as the king of engine swaps, due to their affordability, reliability, and versatility across various vehicle models.
• 💨 The GM Ecotec Inline-4 is becoming a popular choice for swaps, especially the turbocharged versions which can produce up to 350 hp.
• 📦 Engine swap kits are widely available for many of the discussed engines, making it easier for enthusiasts to integrate them into their vehicles.
• 🛠️ Availability of engines in junkyards is high, especially for models like the EcoBoost and N52, providing affordable options for projects.
• 🌟 The discussion encourages creativity in engine swaps, emphasizing that the origin of the engine doesn’t matter as much as the performance it delivers.

Q & A

What is the first engine discussed in the video, and what makes it notable?

The first engine discussed is the Ford EcoBoost, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine known for its reliability and performance, producing 330 horsepower and 350 ft-lbs of torque. It's notable for being a compact engine suitable for various applications, including muscle cars.

Why was the Ford EcoBoost engine overshadowed initially?

The Ford EcoBoost was overshadowed by traditional V8 engines, as many enthusiasts preferred the sound and power of V8s, making it hard to accept a four-cylinder in iconic models like the Mustang.

What is the BMW N52 engine, and what are its key characteristics?

The BMW N52 is a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine produced from 2004 to 2015, generating 250 wheel horsepower. It's lightweight due to its aluminum-magnesium composite construction and is widely available in various BMW models.

What makes the LFX V6 engine from General Motors a suitable choice for engine swaps?

The LFX V6 engine offers a good balance of performance and size, producing 323 horsepower in its most powerful form (from the Camaro) while being compact enough for smaller cars, making it ideal for engine swaps.

What unique swap opportunity does the Audi 2.7L V6 engine provide for Porsche owners?

The Audi 2.7L V6 engine can be swapped into non-running Porsche Boxsters or 911s, providing a cost-effective alternative to replacing the unreliable stock flat-six engines, potentially doubling the horsepower.

What is the significance of the 07K 2.5L 5-cylinder engine from Volkswagen?

The 07K engine is considered the 'German K swap' due to its robustness and performance potential. It can produce around 170 horsepower in stock form and is known for its reliability, often exceeding 300,000 miles without major issues.

What advantages do LS engines provide for swap enthusiasts?

LS engines are extremely popular due to their affordability, reliability, and extensive aftermarket support. They are easy to find in junkyards and are compatible with a wide range of vehicles, making them a favorite for engine swaps.

What is the ecological counterpart to the LS engine in the video, and what makes it interesting?

The ecological counterpart mentioned is the Ecotec inline-four engine, known for its availability and performance in a variety of vehicles. The turbocharged variant, LK9, can produce up to 350 horsepower, making it a viable option for engine swaps.

How does the video suggest ensuring a successful engine swap?

The video emphasizes creativity in choosing the engine and not being ashamed of its origin. The key is to focus on the power output and suitability for the vehicle, rather than the car it originally came from.

What unusual engine swap example is mentioned towards the end of the video?

The video highlights a unique swap where a water-cooled engine is installed in a vehicle, with water pumped through it to keep it cool. This unconventional setup is showcased as a humorous take on creative engine swaps.