1.6 engine died, suggestions for new one
 

So the 1.6 engine in my 1992 died. I believe it spun a bearing based on sound and power loss.

I use the car as my daily driver and for autocross. I do have another car for daily use when the Miata is being worked on or when I need more than two seats.

Going to a 1.8 is the common upgrade when a 1.6 goes.

What years of the 1.8 are matches for my current 5 speed?
Does the 2.0 work, or do I need a different transmission for that?

I did upgrade the diff to a torsen last year. A Flyin Miata clutch and flywheel was installed three or four years ago.

I briefly considered a V8, but it looks like the cost for everything required will be a bit much.

The noise kind of sounds like it is coming from the valve train to me. The quality of video makes it hard to tell though.

Even if an engine swap just barely crossed you mind, at the very least go up to the 1.8. Your transmission will fit any 1.8 BP version ever made. That will save you a few bucks on the initial swap.

When you say 2.0, are you referring to the FE3 or just a stroked BP? I do not recall all the details on the FE3, but there are a ton of FE3 threads that will answer all your questions about them.

Going to a more exotic swap will require much more cash, time, and ambition.

So any BP until 2005 is ok? Does it matter what transmission is was attached to? 5/6sp, auto?

The 2.0 I am referring to is from the NC.

Of course I would prefer a "new" engine. FM has built engines, but $5K+ is too much for me. Are there more affordable, quality built engines?

I would love to do an NC motor swap, but that has not been done to often. You would be pretty much on your own making it happen, and it will not be cheap.

Any 5 speed and 6 speed from any NA or NB. If you install an auto and have working legs, you will be hunted down and exterminated like a rabid coon. This is Miata Turbo damn it.

How much can you do yourself? You can save a ton of money if you can at least do some of the work.

I would not install an auto transmission. I was wondering if the engine from a car that had an auto would be ok.
Also, if the car came from a 6 speed, do I need to install a 6 speed transmission or can I keep the 5?

I hope to do most of the work myself.

They are all interchangeable.

Thanks, Troy.

There are places that sell low mileage 1.8's imported from Japan for less than $800. I have used many of them over the years. An auto engine is not a problem.

Thanks, could you list some of those places?

JDM Engine Zone - 90-95 MIATA Mazda BP miata

It is best to make a trip with a pickup and select an engine and negotiate the price.

The other local place I dealt with in Paterson has disappeared.

I have friends that bought at higher prices at other places and got screwed.

EDIT: Do a google on JDM Engines for ones in your area

I ordered an engine with a transmission from a place like that. I had good luck. Was 800 shipped a few years ago. 1.6 and 1.8 are almost identical in fitment in the bay. There are things that need to be done for the swap but its easy to make any 1.8 work in a newer na.

A lot of those places have 90 day warrenties too. I did a leakdowntest when I got the motor. Had it failed they said they'd send me another.

Some import 1.8s are FWD application, so you will need to source an oil pan, V/C, and other small items. Not a huge deal and I have done many.

1.8 is a worth while indeavor.
Did mine years ago and now doing my wife one. (Oh, why did I let her drive my car)

Now days you can find a low mile 01+ VVT just as easy, and for a little more work get plenty more torque.
Lots of info on that here on MT.net.

Thanks for the input. Does anyone know if the BEGI S4 exhaust manifold for the 1.6 fits the 1.8?

Exhaust manifolds are not interchangeable 1.6 to 1.8. Either are the intake manifolds.


EDIT: Staying with a 1.6 might be cheaper in the long run if you are happy with the performance.

Personally, I am happy with my 1.6 turbo; and would just replace the part or whole of it if I had a problem(with another 1.6)

Upgrade to a 1.8 or face the consequences.

Been turbo'd on my 1.6 for 75000 miles. What are these consequences I need to face?

I suggest a built 1.6l

loneliness, infertility, emotional instability, increased flow, and a lifetime of shame.

One day I will face this same dilemma when I inevitably blow up my 1.6 but I can't fathom switching to a 1.8. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure it's better but I can't imagine having to ditch my turbo setup. I'll just go with a built 1.6.

Already got that covered. I thought maybe you were referring to something mechanical.;)