I have heard that this swap is not a good choice because the 16v engine lacks low end torque. It is great in a GTI or GLI (light cars) but a real dog in a heavy van. The power and torque curves are set up for the higher end of the rpm band. I have heard of a guy in Germany doing this one and he said it was not a good idea (now he has a VR6 in there!). The better choice is either a 1.8 liter JH motor (GTI, GLI 8valve), the newer 2.0 liter 8v, or a nice turbo diesel (TDI perferably). All of these motors have excellent low end torque (especially the diesels) so you won't be stuck creeping away from a stop sign or afraid to pull out into traffic. I am doing the 1.8l JH motor swap myself (still in the middle of it) so if you want some pointers just drop me a line. Have fun. Ken Wilford John 3:16 |
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