Engine Choice for Single Cab

[16vMatt]

Hi all, I have a 4 spd 1.9DG watercooled single cab pickup and I'm looking for a bit more "ooomph" as I'm looking to sell my Corrado so my van will now be my daily.

I've been looking at some 1999 legacy's with the 2.5 engine in and just wondering how hard this conversion actually is and what parts are needed if I were to buy the whole car not just the engine. Not really fussed about the installation because I'm an engineering student and I've got plenty of mates willing to help.

Also is there a 5 speed box I could put in aswell because at the moment I feel sorry for the old gal and when I take her over 45mph in 4th.

Cheers in advance

P.S how much difference will the 2.5 engine make?

[chuckle-bus-tom]

Elvis has a full volvo conversion for sale. With flatbed vans there is so much room to play with, so go as mad as your wallet allows. Search on YouTube and see what some of the headcases in Europe have done.

[marlinowner]

5 speed box doesn't have an overdrive fifth, just generally closer ratios. Easiest way to give longer gearing with a more powerful engine is to fit bigger tyres.

[silverbullet]

Strictly speaking all T3 "094" transaxles have an overdrive top ratio regatdless of whether 4 or 5 speed. There are a range of final drive ratios though, I would be looking for one with a 4.57 to go with a 2.5 Subaru or even get one rebuilt with a 4.14, also known as a 7/29 cw&p set.
I recently heard that a 2.5 wbx will pull a 4.14 and a diesel 0.77 top gear with ease.

[16vMatt]

Cheers for the info so far fellas. How many days of work would you say the conversion takes?

[axeman]

Any where from a long weekend to years depending on how motivated you are

Neil