Omega Owners Forum

Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: theolodian on 17 February 2008, 22:26:17

Title: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 17 February 2008, 22:26:17
Want something interesting as a second car, and a little special.  Bike/Elise/VX220 Turbo don't carry enough to be at all practical.  Want to use regularly although will keep the Omega so not every day.

I would rather be in the 6K range, but bu66er all in terms of decent cars.  Love the ur-Quattro but too old.  Not safe enough by modern standards without a cage, and that's a lot of money on an already expensive car.  Plus lose rear seats.  OTOH, maybe Esprit not so safe, old design?  :-/
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 17 February 2008, 22:36:50
If safety is an issue with the Audi I'd look carefully at the Lotus. Quite a few old Lotus cars pretty much only have chassis strength down the transmission tunnel so quite what happens in a side impact I'm not sure. Esprit is a very different animal to the ones I am familiar with (Elan, Europa, etc.) However it's a lot of car for the money and a shape that ages well IMHO.

If the "wedge" shape does it for you what about a TVR 350/390? (watch out for rotten chassis though). Slightly more conventional front engine, rwd setup so probably less expensive to keep running?

Digging up some owner's forums would probably be a good move.

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 17 February 2008, 22:40:59
Seems to have wide sills, though not quite as imposing for the size as the Elise.  Sure it isn't stellar safety though, and no airbags.

Would do a lot of work myself, and hear TVR's aren't so great.  Also heard that the Noble's completely fall to pieces, but that's not in my price range anyway.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 22:46:20
Sod safety, do it, you know you wanna!!!!  :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: HerefordElite on 17 February 2008, 22:48:52
Quote
Want something interesting as a second car, and a little special.  Bike/Elise/VX220 Turbo don't carry enough to be at all practical.  Want to use regularly although will keep the Omega so not every day.

I would rather be in the 6K range, but bu66er all in terms of decent cars.  Love the ur-Quattro but too old.  Not safe enough by modern standards without a cage, and that's a lot of money on an already expensive car.  Plus lose rear seats.  OTOH, maybe Esprit not so safe, old design?  :-/

just supercharge your elite - job done  ;) ;D
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 17 February 2008, 22:53:58
Quote
Sod safety, do it, you know you wanna!!!!  :y
It's gonna be something like that in the end.  ::)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 23:05:02
Good man! We have to put up with enough crap from the health and safety nazi's in everyday life, you gotta have some fun every now and again...
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 17 February 2008, 23:08:29
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Good man! We have to put up with enough crap from the health and safety nazi's in everyday life, you gotta have some fun every now and again...

Well said. My toy car isn't exactly high on the NCAP ratings ;D However, I don't intend to crash it.

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: albitz on 17 February 2008, 23:15:22
hayabusa with panniers? :y   ;D
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 17 February 2008, 23:26:11
968 CS would probably be better for the money.  :-/

I want something un-pc.  Amazing how much they cost though, you would think they would be less popular?!  :-?
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: albitz on 17 February 2008, 23:28:39
dunno what a 968cs is :-/
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 23:32:12
I think for a bit of fun I'd go for a cossie powered, tarmac arched mk2 escort. I live in a town full of roundabouts so I'd just go everywhere sideways with a big grin on my face.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 17 February 2008, 23:34:39
Quote
I think for a bit of fun I'd go for a cossie powered, tarmac arched mk2 escort. I live in a town full of roundabouts so I'd just go everywhere sideways with a big grin on my face.
:-*

BIG money for a nice MK 2 unless you're in for a restoration though. :'(

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: albitz on 17 February 2008, 23:34:42
full cage,lsd,anti dive,anti tramp,quick rack...funnnnnnnnn... :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 23:37:01
Now we're talking! You can get a group 4 shell for around £15k, rally ready car for £45k. Its a lot of pennies but very well spent if you ask me!  :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: amigov6 on 17 February 2008, 23:37:37
 :)i'd be tempted to look @ RWD Escorts myself. Mk1 Mexico, 1600GT X-Flow. Lovely punchy engine & type 49 bodyshell. Or MK2 RS2000. Many cars quicker but in the right hands through roundabouts or twisty A/B roads these can hold their own amongst boring modern cars. You also get classic ins., can take to local shows, & all parts available.
    I'm a classic Ford man but if not try a Dolomite Sprint. These are real babies, gorgeous cars, smooth & comfy but go like break if you want. Obviously check before handing over your hard earned, lots of bodge jobs & copies floating around. If you find the right one either of these would make a cracking weekend classic but still have room to be practical.
     Just my opinion. You said you wanted some room.
       Happy hunting, let us know what you end up with. :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Vamps on 17 February 2008, 23:38:10
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Quote
I think for a bit of fun I'd go for a cossie powered, tarmac arched mk2 escort. I live in a town full of roundabouts so I'd just go everywhere sideways with a big grin on my face.
:-*

BIG money for a nice MK 2 unless you're in for a restoration though. :'(

Kevin

Drop a V6 into a Mk1 or 2 cortina, leave on standar diff and gearbox. Low top speed but you will have some fun getting their ;D ;D ;D
and it will drift on the slightest of bends. :y :y :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: albitz on 17 February 2008, 23:38:26
i would go for a chevette hs(if i could find one) i had one when i was 19 (BIG insurance) it was the most fun i ever had on 4 wheels :)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 23:39:09
Or maybe a v8 powered mk2 granny, better still make it a hearse...
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Vamps on 17 February 2008, 23:40:35
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Or maybe a v8 powered mk2 granny, better still make it a hearse...

That would be interesting, and they are dead cheap too.  :D :D :D
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 23:41:52
Quote

That would be interesting, and they are dead cheap too.  :D :D :D

LOL!!!!  :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: HerefordElite on 17 February 2008, 23:42:20
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Quote
I think for a bit of fun I'd go for a cossie powered, tarmac arched mk2 escort. I live in a town full of roundabouts so I'd just go everywhere sideways with a big grin on my face.
:-*

BIG money for a nice MK 2 unless you're in for a restoration though. :'(

Kevin

stupid money for 'scorts these days - people used to chop them up to make kitcars (Ron Campion) ;D ;D
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Vamps on 17 February 2008, 23:44:21
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Quote
Quote
I think for a bit of fun I'd go for a cossie powered, tarmac arched mk2 escort. I live in a town full of roundabouts so I'd just go everywhere sideways with a big grin on my face.
:-*

BIG money for a nice MK 2 unless you're in for a restoration though. :'(

Kevin

stupid money for 'scorts these days - people used to chop them up to make kitcars (Ron Campion) ;D ;D

Do it in a 107E or 105E. Bubbles fit, same mechanics just put in a big engine, better still put in a big engine and leave the body stock. :D :D :D
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: amigov6 on 17 February 2008, 23:47:04
Or How about a Lotus Sunbeam, reading the Chevette HS post reminded me of these, peachy 2.2 engine  if you can live with an Avenger dashboard..i could!!!! :P :P
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: The Elite on 17 February 2008, 23:47:44
Love street sleepers, 100e's make a great sleeper. Paint it black, de-chrome it, red steel wheels with whitewalls and stick a v6 in it. Job done.  :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Vamps on 17 February 2008, 23:48:49
Quote
Or How about a Lotus Sunbeam, reading the Chevette HS post reminded me of these, peachy 2.2 engine  if you can live with an Avenger dashboard..i could!!!! :P :P

Smca dashboard.  :D :D :D
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: amigov6 on 18 February 2008, 00:13:48
I remember Simcas, 1301/1501 saloons & the hatchbacks/vans(i had a Simca 1100 van, rattly reliable but not an Avenger Dash. :) :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Vamps on 18 February 2008, 00:27:01
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I remember Simcas, 1301/1501 saloons & the hatchbacks/vans(i had a Simca 1100 van, rattly reliable but not an Avenger Dash. :) :y

if you mean the Hilman Avenger then right. Lotus Sunbeam was a Chrysler, sme as Avenger, Alpine and Rancho, all had the same basic mechanicals, Avenger was modernised with bits added on the front and rear wings but had the same dash as the others, though retained old mechanicals, the Matra, Sunbeam and Alpine were all simca's. The Lotus one was different mechanicals. Russel Brookes had one and I have driven the Sunbeam, Escort MK 1 and 2, chevette and Manta rally Cars when I worked for Andrews Heat for Hire.
 :) :) :)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: albitz on 18 February 2008, 01:19:44
russeli brookes...a hero,used to watch him on the circuit of ireland in the mk2 escort in my youth,he didnt know how to give up, a real trier. :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: zippo on 18 February 2008, 08:48:50
Quote
Want something interesting as a second car, and a little special.  Bike/Elise/VX220 Turbo don't carry enough to be at all practical.  Want to use regularly although will keep the Omega so not every day.

I would rather be in the 6K range, but bu66er all in terms of decent cars.  Love the ur-Quattro but too old.  Not safe enough by modern standards without a cage, and that's a lot of money on an already expensive car.  Plus lose rear seats.  OTOH, maybe Esprit not so safe, old design?  :-/
how about a bike powered mini rwd handy on the bendy bits fast on the straights
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Martin_1962 on 18 February 2008, 10:36:40
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Or How about a Lotus Sunbeam, reading the Chevette HS post reminded me of these, peachy 2.2 engine  if you can live with an Avenger dashboard..i could!!!! :P :P

pretty expensive though - I'd like one.

Mind you I liked Avengers too!
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Martin_1962 on 18 February 2008, 10:42:32
Quote
Quote
I remember Simcas, 1301/1501 saloons & the hatchbacks/vans(i had a Simca 1100 van, rattly reliable but not an Avenger Dash. :) :y

if you mean the Hilman Avenger then right. Lotus Sunbeam was a Chrysler, sme as Avenger, Alpine and Rancho, all had the same basic mechanicals, Avenger was modernised with bits added on the front and rear wings but had the same dash as the others, though retained old mechanicals, the Matra, Sunbeam and Alpine were all simca's. The Lotus one was different mechanicals. Russel Brookes had one and I have driven the Sunbeam, Escort MK 1 and 2, chevette and Manta rally Cars when I worked for Andrews Heat for Hire.
 :) :) :)


The Avenger was a early 70s modern small car, designed to be easy to make and easy to work on, CAD was used too!

4 door saloon, 5 door estate, all coil sprung, live axle, well designed push rod lump.

It was the last all new car from Rootes group.

The Sunbeam is a hatch version of the Avenger with a shorter wheelbase.

The Horriblizon and Alpine are more Simca based.

Ones to look for are Avenger GLS, GT and Tiger, Sunbeam GLS, Ti and Lotus.

There are a lot of hybreds out there, most are now 1600 even if not built as such, and most of those are modified. Most have also got higher spec trim (or are stripped) - usual thing of getting the nice bits from the scrap yard.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: albitz on 18 February 2008, 10:50:09
i had an avenger years ago,did some mods to suspension and engine and it made it a good car to drive,i thought they were under rated at the time,very overshadowed by the escort.sadly in the end it rusted so badly that there wasnt much of it left to drive it,was 7 years old then,rust froofing has moved on somewhat since then ! :)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Elite Pete on 18 February 2008, 11:07:23
I would buy or better still build one of these


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/1980-Triumph-TR8-Grinnall-V8-convertible-sports-car_W0QQitemZ110223736963QQihZ001QQcategoryZ29760QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: MaxV6 on 18 February 2008, 11:10:41
What about a Scimitar??

http://search.ebay.co.uk/reliant-scimitar_W0QQfsooZ2QQfsopZ3QQsbrsrtZl
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 18 February 2008, 11:46:58
Those clasics are neat in their own way.  However, I am looking more for something mid-90's or later for 6K-ish ideally.  Not a convertible, and at least a passing attempt at a rear seat.

In many ways a TT would be ideal, although a little over budget, except they don't handle quite as well as I would like and they aren't that special.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Big Fra on 18 February 2008, 12:15:59
Esprit V8!

Read this months Practical Performance Car.

Seriously, everyone should read this mag, its great! I have exchanged a few e-mails with the editor in past and they are all a great bunch.

Especially Charlie.  Rover SD1 with a 27ltr V12 Meteor tank engine!
ROAD LEGAL!

(No, I dont work for them)

http://www.ppcmag.co.uk/       :y

Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 18 February 2008, 13:58:07
Quote
Esprit V8!

Read this months Practical Performance Car.

Seriously, everyone should read this mag, its great! I have exchanged a few e-mails with the editor in past and they are all a great bunch.

Especially Charlie.  Rover SD1 with a 27ltr V12 Meteor tank engine!
ROAD LEGAL!

(No, I dont work for them)

http://www.ppcmag.co.uk/       :y

I'm gonna go buy that!  :y

The magazine that is.  ::)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 18 February 2008, 14:52:25

Quote
Especially Charlie.  Rover SD1 with a 27ltr V12 Meteor tank engine!

Yep. Here it is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-aC5B348rA

.. and here's why his neighbours love him so much...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJuS0jR6_E4&feature=related

 ;D

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: JiMbOb789 on 18 February 2008, 14:54:35
i like esprits, nice looking cars
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: ians on 18 February 2008, 18:47:00
Quote
Those clasics are neat in their own way.  However, I am looking more for something mid-90's or later for 6K-ish ideally.  Not a convertible, and at least a passing attempt at a rear seat.

In many ways a TT would be ideal, although a little over budget, except they don't handle quite as well as I would like and they aren't that special.

you could get a nice late 944 turbo for 6k, or as you say an 968 if you can stand the styling.   Plenty of bits available and good indie network.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Big Fra on 18 February 2008, 19:02:05
Quote
Those clasics are neat in their own way.  However, I am looking more for something mid-90's or later for 6K-ish ideally.  Not a convertible, and at least a passing attempt at a rear seat.

In many ways a TT would be ideal, although a little over budget, except they don't handle quite as well as I would like and they aren't that special.

Lexus/Toyota Soarer. Have a look at them, your budget will buy one of the very best.


http://www.smiffiessoarersanctuary.com/index.html

This guy is the soarer god.

Also, have a look at.

http://www.toyotaimportsforum.co.uk/forum/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=19

It is a little dull, but buy and tune right and you will be onto a winner.

Dont buy a badge, buy a car! ;D

I think that could be a new siggy! ;)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: ricardo1500 on 19 February 2008, 10:01:01
Just a thought ....ever considered a Jaguar XK8, should tick all your boxes, now available from about £6000 upwards.  A lot of car for your money IMHO
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 19 February 2008, 11:04:53
Quote
Just a thought ....ever considered a Jaguar XK8, should tick all your boxes, now available from about £6000 upwards.  A lot of car for your money IMHO
Thanks, I'll take a look.  At first blush, like the Soarer it just isn't that exciting.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Paul M on 19 February 2008, 11:16:57
Quote
Just a thought ....ever considered a Jaguar XK8, should tick all your boxes, now available from about £6000 upwards.  A lot of car for your money IMHO

I looked into these before buying my 840, but TBH they're dull as ditchwater -- try finding a manual version for starters, even on the XKR they're like hen's teeth. Seems they're only available on some rare special models (read very expensive), so basically it's an old man's cruiser rather than a fun car. Certainly nothing like the Esprit at all I'd expect!
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Paul M on 19 February 2008, 11:27:04
Thought about an E34 M5? Very nice to drive, plenty of practicality, slides the rear end easily enough and it comes with a slipper as standard. Not amazingly quick (later ones are 3.8 inline 6 with 340 BHP) but they handle very well for such a big car. You'd get a good one for £5-6k.

For a fun car that you want to spend a lot of time going sideways you want enough power to break traction easily in the dry without having to dip the clutch, and of course RWD mated to a manual box with an LSD. The latter of those is the hardest to find fitted as standard, there are a lot of fun cars out there that are somewhat spoiled by the open diff IMO.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 19 February 2008, 11:53:24
Quote
Thought about an E34 M5? Very nice to drive, plenty of practicality, slides the rear end easily enough and it comes with a slipper as standard. Not amazingly quick (later ones are 3.8 inline 6 with 340 BHP) but they handle very well for such a big car. You'd get a good one for £5-6k.
I'm not looking to replace the Omega, this would be a 2nd car.  I would also prefer something to do some mods to so adding a slipper is not a big deal.  More worried about a decent chasis to start with.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 20 February 2008, 10:53:42
Still really like the Esprit V8 idea, but don't have a garage or the time to do an engine swap this year.  Also really prefer rear seats.

There are some Cerbera 4.2's for about 9K . . . that could be really interesting!  Has rear seats, should be exciting enough, and as long as the engine makes it until next year then I can do a swap to a more reliable engine.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: kris9128 on 20 February 2008, 15:24:21
what about lancia delta. can b picked up for reasonable ££ and very good fun.  :y :y. just a thought
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 20 February 2008, 15:29:10
Quote
Still really like the Esprit V8 idea, but don't have a garage or the time to do an engine swap this year.  Also really prefer rear seats.

There are some Cerbera 4.2's for about 9K . . . that could be really interesting!  Has rear seats, should be exciting enough, and as long as the engine makes it until next year then I can do a swap to a more reliable engine.

Mate of mine has just sold a Cerbera. It's an ideal enthusiasts car. Always something to tinker with repair but went like absolute stink. 145MPH before the end of the motorway slip private road. Don't think he had any major mechanical issues, just electrical niggles.

Have you seen PPC Yet?

Making me think about Esprits... And 27 litre V12s. Not necessarily in the same vehicle.  :-*

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 20 February 2008, 16:00:39
Quote
what about lancia delta. can b picked up for reasonable ££ and very good fun.  :y :y. just a thought
Only LHD and stop for electricity/bits even more often than for petrol I hear.  Otherwise, yeah I love the rally beasts!

My ur-Quattro had bad enough electricals.  Got recovered because it died in heavy rain in heavy traffic.  Turned out the fuse box overheated with the lights and wipers on and dropped voltage to the ECU.  By the time it was recovered home it had cooled down and ran fine!  ::)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 20 February 2008, 16:06:22
Quote
Quote
Still really like the Esprit V8 idea, but don't have a garage or the time to do an engine swap this year.  Also really prefer rear seats.

There are some Cerbera 4.2's for about 9K . . . that could be really interesting!  Has rear seats, should be exciting enough, and as long as the engine makes it until next year then I can do a swap to a more reliable engine.

Mate of mine has just sold a Cerbera. It's an ideal enthusiasts car. Always something to tinker with repair but went like absolute stink. 145MPH before the end of the motorway slip private road. Don't think he had any major mechanical issues, just electrical niggles.

Have you seen PPC Yet?

Making me think about Esprits... And 27 litre V12s. Not necessarily in the same vehicle.  :-*

Kevin
Yeah, the missus got it for me.  I can't get home before WH Smiths closes and there isn't one in the town I work in.  >:(  Now I need to get issue 43 with the article on Cerbera's . . .  :P

I would love to do an Esprit, but just can't see a way to have the time and the place to do an engine swap this year.  Already know everything that I would want to do, but I'm as likely to get a Veyron at this rate.  :'(

If the Cerbera runs well then I could get that, rewire it bit by bit, and do a nice engine swap next winter/spring.  Won't handle quite like the Esprit I suppose, but should be more usable.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 20 February 2008, 17:36:52
Quote
Quote
Quote
Still really like the Esprit V8 idea, but don't have a garage or the time to do an engine swap this year.  Also really prefer rear seats.

There are some Cerbera 4.2's for about 9K . . . that could be really interesting!  Has rear seats, should be exciting enough, and as long as the engine makes it until next year then I can do a swap to a more reliable engine.

Mate of mine has just sold a Cerbera. It's an ideal enthusiasts car. Always something to tinker with repair but went like absolute stink. 145MPH before the end of the motorway slip private road. Don't think he had any major mechanical issues, just electrical niggles.

Have you seen PPC Yet?

Making me think about Esprits... And 27 litre V12s. Not necessarily in the same vehicle.  :-*

Kevin
Yeah, the missus got it for me.  I can't get home before WH Smiths closes and there isn't one in the town I work in.  >:(  Now I need to get issue 43 with the article on Cerbera's . . .  :P

I would love to do an Esprit, but just can't see a way to have the time and the place to do an engine swap this year.  Already know everything that I would want to do, but I'm as likely to get a Veyron at this rate.  :'(

If the Cerbera runs well then I could get that, rewire it bit by bit, and do a nice engine swap next winter/spring.  Won't handle quite like the Esprit I suppose, but should be more usable.

Yeah, the V8 TVR engine is supposed to be OK. It's the inline 6 that generated all the horror stories. They are also plummeting in value at the moment, which is why my mate bailed.

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: ians on 20 February 2008, 17:43:21
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
Still really like the Esprit V8 idea, but don't have a garage or the time to do an engine swap this year.  Also really prefer rear seats.

There are some Cerbera 4.2's for about 9K . . . that could be really interesting!  Has rear seats, should be exciting enough, and as long as the engine makes it until next year then I can do a swap to a more reliable engine.

Mate of mine has just sold a Cerbera. It's an ideal enthusiasts car. Always something to tinker with repair but went like absolute stink. 145MPH before the end of the motorway slip private road. Don't think he had any major mechanical issues, just electrical niggles.

Have you seen PPC Yet?

Making me think about Esprits... And 27 litre V12s. Not necessarily in the same vehicle.  :-*

Kevin
Yeah, the missus got it for me.  I can't get home before WH Smiths closes and there isn't one in the town I work in.  >:(  Now I need to get issue 43 with the article on Cerbera's . . .  :P

I would love to do an Esprit, but just can't see a way to have the time and the place to do an engine swap this year.  Already know everything that I would want to do, but I'm as likely to get a Veyron at this rate.  :'(

If the Cerbera runs well then I could get that, rewire it bit by bit, and do a nice engine swap next winter/spring.  Won't handle quite like the Esprit I suppose, but should be more usable.

Yeah, the V8 TVR engine is supposed to be OK. It's the inline 6 that generated all the horror stories. They are also plummeting in value at the moment, which is why my mate bailed.

Kevin

What is parts availability like for the TVR engine (not the Rover one) now they don't make it any more?
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 20 February 2008, 17:45:43
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What is parts availability like for the TVR engine (not the Rover one) now they don't make it any more?

Good question. I would imagine there'll always be some demand, so someone will make them, perhaps at a price. Wonder what happened to the engine design? Did it just get buried or did someone take it over?

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 20 February 2008, 18:10:22
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What is parts availability like for the TVR engine (not the Rover one) now they don't make it any more?

Good question. I would imagine there'll always be some demand, so someone will make them, perhaps at a price. Wonder what happened to the engine design? Did it just get buried or did someone take it over?

Kevin
They're certainly around as some of the ones for sale advertise recent rebuilds.  Not cheap at 5K+.  Not sure any of the V8's make it past 30-40K, I think it's worse on the 6's.

Not really bothered myself, I would put something more reliable in when it went if not before.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 20 February 2008, 19:09:26
I never understood why a company with such limited resources would start designing their own engines. I guess it was probably an interesting project but the heart ruling the head is not a good business model.

Plenty of off-the-shelf engines would have done the job more reliably, and they could have concentrated their resources on other things, like making the headlights work.

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: smoothomega on 20 February 2008, 19:26:12
V12 HE XJS ???, maybe even a drop top, they are out there for relativly little money, just a thought  :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: amigov6 on 20 February 2008, 23:16:53
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i had an avenger years ago,did some mods to suspension and engine and it made it a good car to drive,i thought they were under rated at the time,very overshadowed by the escort.sadly in the end it rusted so badly that there wasnt much of it left to drive it,was 7 years old then,rust froofing has moved on somewhat since then ! :)
7? Good on ya, iwas 18 when i had mine!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Minispud on 20 February 2008, 23:35:32
Hey Theolodian,

 Why not got for a MR2, mid engine RWD lots of bolt on goodies or the MX5, front engine/rear wheel drive, again lots of bolt on goodies and you can lower a V8 under the bonnet, if you are brave enough to do so  :o, it has been done on the other side of the pond with a 350 GM unit  :) :)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 21 February 2008, 07:43:55
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Hey Theolodian,

 Why not got for a MR2, mid engine RWD lots of bolt on goodies or the MX5, front engine/rear wheel drive, again lots of bolt on goodies and you can lower a V8 under the bonnet, if you are brave enough to do so  :o, it has been done on the other side of the pond with a 350 GM unit  :) :)
I like the MR2, but the Elise would be more special.  Neither one of them has rear seats though.

We call the MX5 the Miata, and the V8 one the Monster Miata.  :y  I don't fit in it though.  ::)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 21 February 2008, 09:00:15
I would never touch a TVR with a TVR designed engine in it.....now a nice Rover V8 based Griffith....

And MX5's are a bit to 'hairdresser' in image for me!

Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 21 February 2008, 09:16:42
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I would never touch a TVR with a TVR designed engine in it.....now a nice Rover V8 based Griffith....

Yeah, an engine swap would be assumed.  I would just like to enjoy it until at least August before tearing it apart.  :)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 21 February 2008, 09:20:17
The other thing that TVR's are renowned for is gearboxes dying, on a number of models they use the massively over rated T5 gearbox and they tend to eat them....
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 21 February 2008, 09:34:55
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The other thing that TVR's are renowned for is gearboxes dying, on a number of models they use the massively over rated T5 gearbox and they tend to eat them....
OK, thanks.  I'll have to do more research on what engines and gearboxes would be good to use.  I know that there are easier, but I'm really tempted by the RS4 engine.  Just my quirky nature I guess.  ::)
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Minispud on 21 February 2008, 11:07:23
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The other thing that TVR's are renowned for is gearboxes dying, on a number of models they use the massively over rated T5 gearbox and they tend to eat them....
OK, thanks.  I'll have to do more research on what engines and gearboxes would be good to use.  I know that there are easier, but I'm really tempted by the RS4 engine.  Just my quirky nature I guess.  ::)

 The only trouble with the RS4 engine is going to costly to buy and run, but if this is the sort of engine you are after why not a E39 M5 V8  :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 21 February 2008, 12:38:24
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The other thing that TVR's are renowned for is gearboxes dying, on a number of models they use the massively over rated T5 gearbox and they tend to eat them....
OK, thanks.  I'll have to do more research on what engines and gearboxes would be good to use.  I know that there are easier, but I'm really tempted by the RS4 engine.  Just my quirky nature I guess.  ::)

 The only trouble with the RS4 engine is going to costly to buy and run, but if this is the sort of engine you are after why not a E39 M5 V8  :y
Not sure what you mean.  More expensive to buy initially than some maybe, but at just over 2K it is cheaper than building a nice V8 with fuel injection.  Not familiar with the E39 V8, but many of the 90's BMW engines have bore wear issues (and don't even get TB started).
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Richie London on 21 February 2008, 14:04:57
i see this lotus at the hillingdon car show last yr,  was some real nice ars there, loved the lotuses, especially the elans,

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj182/richierich1961/DSC00057.jpg
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: amigov6 on 21 February 2008, 18:40:39
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I would never touch a TVR with a TVR designed engine in it.....now a nice Rover V8 based Griffith....

And MX5's are a bit to 'hairdresser' in image for me!
 :)It's a shame the MX5 got tagged with that image. 15 years ago you were a tw*t if you drove a Capri but they're considered "Retro" now so they came through it. The MX5 does'nt deserve the hairdresser tag as it's a cracking little car. I had an early one years ago. The chassis,balance etc was set up perfectly for long sweeping drifts, you really get feedback from these & can feel what they're doing making for some spirited driving. I'm not a lover of cabriolets but MX5's were a car in their own right. not a stock 1.1 with upgraded everything. You also had the Mazda reliability. Inspired by the Lotus Elan, i reckon the Japs got it right.
     Hope it loses it's "Essex Girl" image 'cos i luv 'em! (&MX5's) :P

Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Paul M on 21 February 2008, 20:13:01
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I would never touch a TVR with a TVR designed engine in it.....now a nice Rover V8 based Griffith....

And MX5's are a bit to 'hairdresser' in image for me!
 :)It's a shame the MX5 got tagged with that image. 15 years ago you were a tw*t if you drove a Capri but they're considered "Retro" now so they came through it. The MX5 does'nt deserve the hairdresser tag as it's a cracking little car. I had an early one years ago. The chassis,balance etc was set up perfectly for long sweeping drifts, you really get feedback from these & can feel what they're doing making for some spirited driving. I'm not a lover of cabriolets but MX5's were a car in their own right. not a stock 1.1 with upgraded everything. You also had the Mazda reliability. Inspired by the Lotus Elan, i reckon the Japs got it right.
     Hope it loses it's "Essex Girl" image 'cos i luv 'em! (&MX5's) :P


I agree. One of the guys who works at my sponsoring company has recently bought one as he's moved down to the borders so does a lot of B road driving now. It's got me thinking -- I'm not keen on the image myself, but I've heard nothing but good things handling wise. It would take a lot of getting used to switching from a large, long V8 engined 2-door coupe to a tiny 1.8 coupe, even though both are front engined, RWD.

The thing about the BMW is you can drift it even in the dry, but you need to give it a fair bit of beans due to the 265 profile rear tyres being a bit too grippy. Something that slides much more easily, and has much less inertia when it does start to slide will be much more fun I think. The thing that would piss me off though is the lack of straight line acceleration -- it might be light but there's no substitute for cubic capacity!
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 21 February 2008, 21:40:09
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I would never touch a TVR with a TVR designed engine in it.....now a nice Rover V8 based Griffith....

And MX5's are a bit to 'hairdresser' in image for me!
 :)It's a shame the MX5 got tagged with that image. 15 years ago you were a tw*t if you drove a Capri but they're considered "Retro" now so they came through it. The MX5 does'nt deserve the hairdresser tag as it's a cracking little car. I had an early one years ago. The chassis,balance etc was set up perfectly for long sweeping drifts, you really get feedback from these & can feel what they're doing making for some spirited driving. I'm not a lover of cabriolets but MX5's were a car in their own right. not a stock 1.1 with upgraded everything. You also had the Mazda reliability. Inspired by the Lotus Elan, i reckon the Japs got it right.
     Hope it loses it's "Essex Girl" image 'cos i luv 'em! (&MX5's) :P


I agree. One of the guys who works at my sponsoring company has recently bought one as he's moved down to the borders so does a lot of B road driving now. It's got me thinking -- I'm not keen on the image myself, but I've heard nothing but good things handling wise. It would take a lot of getting used to switching from a large, long V8 engined 2-door coupe to a tiny 1.8 coupe, even though both are front engined, RWD.

The thing about the BMW is you can drift it even in the dry, but you need to give it a fair bit of beans due to the 265 profile rear tyres being a bit too grippy. Something that slides much more easily, and has much less inertia when it does start to slide will be much more fun I think. The thing that would piss me off though is the lack of straight line acceleration -- it might be light but there's no substitute for cubic capacity!
The Boxster also fits that description.  Hairdresser car and slow as Christmas but drifts nice and gently.
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 22 February 2008, 11:38:35
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It's a shame the MX5 got tagged with that image.

I agree too. Mrs. KW has Mk2 1.8 MX 5 and it's a fantastic car to drive. The chassis is just sublime. The hairdresser image just evaporates when you get behind the wheel of one.

It's the one car I've ever driven that you can just jump in and chuck around to your heart's content. No need to learn its' vices because it has none. Totally controllable and plenty of feedback.

Mechanically they're bomb proof and relatively easy to work on. In 100k ours has needed a new coil pack and nothing else.

Only thing is, it is so able to soak up the 140 BHP it has, it feels underpowered. It's not, in fact I reckon it's not far off my Omega's pace at lower speeds, but it just feels like it could be so much fun with another 100 BHP. One of my ambitions is to turbocharge it. Then we'll see [smiley=evil.gif]

Oh, and the other thing: The steering wheel is Huge! what were they thinking? It's like driving a bus!

Kevin
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: Vmax on 22 February 2008, 17:45:33
get a Yammy Vmax, a real thriller!! :P :y
Title: Re: Would an Esprit V8 be a really bad idea?
Post by: theolodian on 22 February 2008, 18:20:36
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get a Yammy Vmax, a real thriller!! :P :y
I have been looking at bikes, but not what I had in mind in terms of a back seat!  I would have bought one last year if the weather had been better.  Not really considering it any more unfortunately, just can't use it enough unless my commute changes.