Hey guys. New to the Miata scene, but not to the FI 4cyl scene.

I just picked up a '91 BRG Miata in amazing shape. Owned by an elderly gentleman who babied it and kept it in perfect condition.

I want to upgrade it with the eventual goal of a fun autocrosser (I don't care what class) and weekend canyon-run type car. I'm looking for some serious advice, so I'll start with what I know...

YES I realize a 1.8L is a better platform to start from. I have an '03 engine and 6sp tranny at the local salvage yard for $2,000 I'm considering.

YES I realize the 1.6 rear end won't hold up. I already bought a torsen, driveshaft, and stub axles.

As far as power goals, I'd really like to hit 200whp, maybe 230whp at the most. I just sold my 300whp STi, and I know that a 200+whp miata will be really quick.

My question is pretty much this... Since I'm not looking to go past low 200's for whp, is it worth my time to swap out for the 1.8L? I know the spool will be faster, and it'll have a little more torque down low, but I could really use that extra 2k and the time and other materials required. My budget isn't very large for the power-side of things. I want to leave enough room in my overall budget for suspension, wheels, tires, etc.

I know this has been talk about a thousand times, but I'm hoping that my situation is a little unique due to the modest power goals. Thanks, sorry if this is in the wrong section or it's redundant.

 

Dude 1.6 is just as strong as a 1.8 and viable im still running one at damn near 300wh so just keep that and do it right you should be fine.

 

You'll be fine on a 1.6 for 200-230whp

 

Sometimes the planets align and we get a reasonable newb. You should call ARTech and consider a short-medium runner tubular manifold. You can still get the low target MAP and make power up top with a large AR turbine.

FYI, 250whp on a Dynojet is "just right" in these cars if you ask me. I'm at 254whp on a Mustang and its a little excessive.

 

1.6 with 2560R will be fine and nice for autocross and whatever else you are doing.

 

Your 1.6 should be fine to about 250whp for street use. I agree with Hustler on the ARtech manifold and downpipe. You could also throw that ebay log mani and a china charger on there...

 

Going with an 03 1.8 is not the best idea. I guess unless you want VVT

 

Ok, I get it. I'm sticking with the 1.6L. That being said, I just tried my first leakdown test, and I think I got pretty good results, with an average of about 2% loss. For a motor with 110k miles, I think that's pretty good. I'm going to go ahead and do the clutch, flywheel, rear end, and then go mspnp w/electronics-less voodoo 2560R kit. Sound reasonable to everyone?

 

VVT has yield impressive results, for those that have spend the money and time needed to achieve them.