Next step?
 

Whats the next problem area after rods/pistons for a 1.6? (and don't say 1.6)
Oil pump? Car won't be used for trackdays or anything, just normal around town. Maybe getting into it at the strip. Do the oil pumps fail that often?

ALLOFIT

I think what ryansmoneypit is trying to say is that your post is a little weak, but I'll humor you.

With rods you're good to a reliable 200-250hp, pistons maybe another 20-40, all depends on condition of the motor, exhaust, turbo size, manifold design, tune, etc, etc.

Oil pump failures come from revs, not power. So if you plan on reving higher than 7k, I'd start looking into a BE pump, supertech valve springs, and a S2 throttle body. Although that last one won't work on your 1.6.

For a couple drag runs, I'd feel safe with rods and a BE pump. When you realize you've made a mistake and desire a NB 1.8, throw the rods from the 1.6 in and some big pistons for the 1.8. Besides time, there's no downside to throwing some Manley rods in a 1.6 in my opinion. Then again, I can build a engine in a day with all the parts in front of me. So your results may vary.

I run 240 rwft lb on stock engines, and am comfortable with 300 rw ft lb on just conrods.

YMMV

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