Whats the best Choice?

[stangerbanger20]

Alright, I just got my first stang, which is a 1986 2.3L non-turbo. Is it better to do V8 swap or a turbo swap? Also, there is a strange mount on my engine that is curved up... i'll try and get a picture soon. Was wondering if it could be a turbo mount? if it is I may just go for the turbo, if not i don't know. I've always wanted a 5.0 to do up nicely. One last thing p) what about a header exhaust setup for the 2.3? and should I cut the cat backs?

 

[bhuff30]

The engine choice really comes down to your personal preferances. If you like tinkering and changing things, and being just a little different, but going just as fast, get the 2.3. If you'd rather drop something in, and not think about ever again, get the 5.0. Both are strong engines. Up to 300hp, the 2.3 is cheap and easy, but 300hp goes a long ways in a fox body. hehe.

 

[sleeper_inc]

If you want a cheap header on your 2.3 N/A then use a 90's ranger header. If your state does emission testing then you want to have your cats on there, but if they don't then rip them off

 

[stangerbanger20]

The engine choice really comes down to your personal preferances. If you like tinkering and changing things, and being just a little different, but going just as fast, get the 2.3. If you'd rather drop something in, and not think about ever again, get the 5.0. Both are strong engines. Up to 300hp, the 2.3 is cheap and easy, but 300hp goes a long ways in a fox body. hehe.

I've always liked the idea of have a big V8 under my mustang along with with mods down the road, so I wouldn't never think about it, but on avg. what is the cost damage? I found a wrecked mustang with a 5.0 in it for $400 so thats not a prob with finding a cheaper 5.0. What about the turbo and other expenses?

 

[Shawneebear93]

I've always liked the idea of have a big V8 under my mustang along with with mods down the road, so I wouldn't never think about it, but on avg. what is the cost damage? I found a wrecked mustang with a 5.0 in it for $400 so thats not a prob with finding a cheaper 5.0. What about the turbo and other expenses?

How much money you spend really depends on you. Most of the parts used for both swaps can all be found at a junkyard - even some performance parts (ex. Volvo intercooler) - and that helps keep costs down. As far a 2.3 exhaust, search for "exhaust" and you'll find plenty of videos, setups, etc.

 

[onebad7up]

They are both fun but they can both be costly. I feel the 2.3 is easier because there is alot of room in the engine compartment to work on the motor. The 5.0 is strong, dependable and has a lot of aftermarket parts. Aftermarket 2.3 parts get very expensive.

IMO, either route is a good choice. I love the 2.3T but I also love the 5.0....so it is just up to you.

 

[Fuzzylogic]

I'm in the same boat.

My thought? Go with the 2.3T. Learn your car, do some work on the chassis, tweak that little 2.3L and have fun with the turbo, etc. The experience will only help you down the road if you decide to swap in a 5.0 and get into forced induction.

Unless you already have a complete understanding of all those things, which I don't. I'm just going to start at the beginning, and that means a 2.3T.

 

[stykthyn]

hell, if you can get a whole 5.0 parts car for 400 get that, you can at least sell it and double your money when you part it out. you can get 400 easy for the motor alone