latest progress

Apologies for delay since last post. Physical progress has been minimal, but I have made good ground in understanding the powerplant and the choices available to me with it.

I have assessed both longitudinal and transverse installation options and have now 90% settled on a longitudinal layout.

This layout gives benefits in mass distribution and centre of gravity. I also believe I will be able to obtain a better driveshaft angle than many of the transverse transplants around. The cost aspect was pretty neutral between the two options, but after some detailed measuring-up of the engine block, the choice of suitable FWD gearboxes was looking extremely limited.

The main downside of the longitudinal layout I am opting for is the risk of reducing chassis stiffness as I have to cut away from material from the fuel tank and the floor, and cut through the rear subframe. I hope to be able to compensate (and maybe more - in terms of stiffness) for this by adding some strategic bracing at the rear of the car.

Another disadvantage is that as it stands I will lose some fuel tank capacity, although there is probably some scope to have a new fuel tank custom made to suit the new package space.

Here are some pics of the current state of the engine bay. As you will see I have removed the standard fibreglass bulkhead to gain space, and also purchased a carbon kevlar passenger seat.