did a search on 1.6 vs 1.8 clutch
 

Hey all, first, I did a search on using a 1.6 vs a 1.8 clutch flywheel assembly on my 1.6 with a begi S2.


I found a few opinions going both ways.But nothing definitive.

If the 1.6 will handle the same power (assuming I use similar aftermarket equipment) as the 1.8, I'd rather go that route to shave a few pounds.

But if I am going to run into power handling ability will suffer significantly, then its on to the 1.8.

Anyone use both options that can give opinions?

ummm,which clutch are you talking about? What type of disc, and pp? 1.8 has more friction area versus the 1.6 so it should hold a little bit better no matter the app. but depending on which clutch setup you get that might be irrelevant.

The 1.6 and 1.8 clutches per Model within each Brand hold very different torque levels.
The BEGi S2 w/AFPR will probably make 200whp@12psi... about 190wtq. You'll be fine with the 1.6 ACT-HD. The 1.6-XT would be overkill at that power. For the same pedal feel and some more headroom, the 1.8-HD has show to hold almost as the 1.6-XT at about the same price.

You can follow the same logic with Spec or Clutchnet or whoever within their models.

It's generally regarded that since the 1.8's are in fact larger pieces that their heavier... but I've never seen the hard numbers. And I've never seen anybody do back to back testing of any kind to prove for example that a 1.6HD "performs" better than a 1.8HD assuming about 200whp.

I was planning on the fidanza 1.6 and something from the clutchnet deal. Unless I was convinced otherwise about going to 1.8 pieces for extra surface area. As for the begi, I really don't plan on running more than 8-10 psi. I track it about every other week for work and really beat it. So I will keep the power down in hopes of added longevity. I was planning on just getting the begi S for some added oomph with a few upgrades for reliability, and realized it dang near put me in S2 category.

If you haven't bought anything yet, buy 1.8 stuff. It's the ticket IMO. You wouldn't opt for a smaller exhaust or radiator or injectors or turbo.

IMO go for the 1.6 if you don't have a huge power goal and can deal with the heavier pedal

It is plenty valid to opt for the smallest components that meet your requirements. While I believe you are correct about exhausts, I don't believe that radiator, injectors, or turbo fit in your statement. If your engine only puts out 200 hp, you don't need 550cc/min injectors or a 3-core radiator or a bigass turbo. There are smaller components that will work more efficiently and end up as a much better solution.

Its funny that the size thing came up. I talked to Corky for a while and we came up with utilizing the smaller turbo.
Lower rpm boost/with more efficient components. It fits what I use the car for better.

i am not going to have huge power and I don't mind a heavier pedal. (anyone ever drive a 79 911 or old 914...heck even an original mini. I didn't mind those clutches, and they make a stock miata feel like a feather could depress it.)

Racing beat or fidanza for the flywheel. Both say they are about 8lbs. Racing beat is a bit more expensive. Is there any quality difference?

I am not a big fan of lightweight flywheels on a FI setup. They can cause some idle issues. Not saying it happens all the time, but it happens. My thought is it is best to keep it simple and then things are easier to diagnose. The 1.8 Flywheel, 94-97, is a few lbs heavier than a 1.6L. I think like 15.8lbs to 18+lbs. The 01-05, 1.8L flywheels are 2.5lbs lighter than the 94-97. The 01-05 seems to be a good trade off. It has more surface area than a 1.6L, but almost the same weight as a 1.6L.

or you can take any 1.8 flywheel to a machine shop since they need to resurface it anyways, just have them grind down some material to make it appx. 13-14 lbs, that's ight enough and you still have plenty of rotating mass

I had the ACT HD 1.8 with the Fidanza on my '91 for awhlie. I switched over to a steel Flywheel and I actually like it better. I like the 1.8 set-up overall because of clutch feel. Slightly heavier than stock but not so heavy that I step out of my car limping on my left leg after fighting Los Angeles rush hour traffic.