Club 80-90 Forums

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.