Subaru Power or Diesel Conversion that is the question.

[danreimo]

Been a while since I was last on here.
so after some advice from the wise, Club 80-90 members.

My old original 2.1 DJ is on its way out and showing signs that a major restoration will be required in the future. So I have decided to bite the bullet and think about having a conversion fitted. Now the question is do I go Subaru powered or a diesel like a VW 1.9tdi?
I like the idea of the Subaru conversion as its a bit more traditional flat 4 etc, and having seen a couple of conversions already can say they look the part, plus a search on line shows that there are numerous companies that will do the conversion.
Alternatively there is the diesel route, I imagine this would be a little more difficult to do, but has the potential for better economy, and cheaper running costs. However I can not find anyone that does these conversions.
Anyone out there who has had either of these conversions done, then your advice would be of great help.
I live in the midlands so if you know of any garages or companies within the midlands area that do either of the conversions that would be great. I am really not a mechanic and do not have the space or knowledge to do it myself.

Many Thanks

[Cableguy]

Try ultimate engineering in Bristol for tdi's. Spannerboy on here is highly recommended for his Subaru conversions.
Both have good reps.
Choice is yours.
I went tdi. Love the economy and torque.

[syncroandy]

One advantage of a Subaru conversion if you currently have a DJ is that you can probably use your gearbox unmodified, wheras a TDI would require a rebuild with taller gears.

[dekhelia]

The diesel (TDI version, anyway) would probably not have much of an advantage, overall cost-wise. As mentioned, to get the best out of it you'd need to modify the gearbox, and what with diesel being more expensive on the forecourt, it'd take a while even at average mileage to recoup the initial outlay differential. Having said which, a Subaru engine would probably be more expensive that a TDI. Although not sure - I just imagine that they're rarer. Could be wrong about that. If it were my choice, I'd go petrol every time: much much quieter!

[T3luestar]

Why not just get your 2.1 reconditioned or replaced?

I'm running the same motor in mine and maybe in a similar situation one day, so interested to what you decide.

[Trundler]

As mentioned elsewhere, I've decided to go for a rebuilt wasserboxer. With the right spec (which it will have eventually) it will have quite adequate power and Diesel-rivalling economy. The big plus with a flat four compared to a Diesel is the smoothness and that indefinable character.