Turboman
Mab An Gov
I quite like the slowness of the original engines.I do suspect some have been reverted, although it would only make sense if you are selling...
This is a friends 80, it has a 3.5 RV8 in it. Absolutely lovely....
Room in the engine bay is less, but tbh better than most modernish (1980's onwards) cars. Visually you wouldn't know it was a V8. But it burbles along with a wonderful soundtrack. It also has enough power to drive with modern traffic. The original 1.6 or 2.0 litre engines where slow even in the 1950s.
It's no worse on fuel than the original engine, just a lot nicer to drive. And I think that is the crux of it. If you have it only as an investment or don't plan to drive it. The 4 pot engines are fine. But something with more power is a lot nicer.
The 80 gets used as a pub car (roof off) during the summer and goes green laning regularly.
This is a family members, also running a 3.5 RV8 and retains the standard bonnet and front panel.
As for swapping in a V8, yes there are a few things to do. And finding the adapter ring might be more difficult these days, although in a 109 you could also easily fit a 5 speed gearbox too. My personal preference would be to stick with a 4 speed though, as it'll make it stay more in character. An LT-95 could be used and will bolt straight to a V8.
Or look at other engines. I personally was very keen to fit a 2.0 T-Series to my 88. But sadly had to sell the vehicle before getting that far. Although the T-Series is a bit of a rare beast these days. More torque than a 2.25p and more power than a Tdi. Plus smooth and refined.
There is of course a Tdi swap, which makes much more sense than a 2.5Nad. But do be warned, the Tdi is less refined than the indirect injection diesels. It would go well and be pretty fugal on fuel. But they are very noisy. I had a 200Tdi in my 88 and it served a good purpose, also managed 43mpg on one laning trip with it. But it was LOUD, no matter what I did. Way less refined than a Tdi 90/110. Had I kept the vehicle it would have gone back to petrol power one way or another.
Personally I doubt any LR engine swap would seriously impact the value of a 109 currently. And as long as you keep the original engine, you could always convert it back should prices dictate it to be financially rewarding. But if you plan to use the vehicle, then having something that goes well is a real bonus.
The ACR stuff for the 2.25p is interesting, but it is pricey. Do really make any difference to outputs you'll spend as much or more than swapping in a V8.
Now that I don't drive tractors on the roads any more, I don't get many opportunities to hold up dozens of motorists. The 2286 cc petrol 2a is ideal!
). Without an OD it’s only really suitable for pootling. They still rev fairly highly at speed with an OD, so I’d say stay away from diesel.
