Hi guys. I have 2 spare engines and all the parts to build them with forged pistons, rods, billet oil pump, ARP studs, ACL bearings etc. If you had the choice, which would you build to install in a 1994 1.8 Eunos and why? I have an ME221 so I believe it can handle VVTI, but part of me wants to do the 1999 engine for simplicity with the fuel system.

FWIW both engines are UK (EUDM) engines.

 

01+ motor because bigger thrust bearings and the head(because you can tune for it. Everything else is really interchangeable between them and especially because swapping into an NA chassis.

Assuming the VVT motor has the square top too IM too?

Search around for the differences between the 2 if you really want to know more

 

Both have identical fuel systems. One will just have a little more low end torque with the VVT, but either one I'd throw the square top manifold (that should be on the EUDM VVT motor)

It's slightly more complicated, but realistically only one extra wire to control the VVT, otherwise above ~5000rpms (or even a bit less) the two heads are fairly similar.

 

As long as the 99-00 block has done over ~50,000 miles it doesn't have the thrust bearing issue.

 

UK.

NB1 is return style, NB2 returnless.

Doesn't matter either way, stick the NB1 rail and accessories on the VVT motor if you want to do that.

 

The real question is using a better ecu

 

You lost me

Edit - I just read the whole thread that started as a HYDRA thread and turned into what seemed like a witch hunt on Motorsport Electronics, lol.

I have no affiliation with anyone, and have had an MSPNP, MSPNP2 and now running an ME221. Honestly the interface is completely different so it's a steep learning curve but its running my car fine so far. I decided to go with ME221 as - after 7 years out of the MX5 game - it's what everyone seems to be using (at least in the U.K.). Time will tell how I get on with it.

 

Probably doesn't make a huge difference but the MBSP for the nb2 is 'better', however it requires modification if you're using ARP hardware.

 

nb2 because of the mbsp. the nb1 will fit the mbsp no problem but if your comparing both of them as a "stock" bottom that would be my choice.