Another 5spd vs 6spd Thread
#1
Another 5spd vs 6spd Thread
Not to beat this one to death, but wanted some fresh opinions on the strength of the 5spd. I recently blew my 1.6 (was my own fault, and had it coming) by running just over 300hp and tore up my connecting rods. I am swapping in a 1.8 and would have a hp goal of about 350ish. That being said, i'd like to keep the 5 speed (already have a torsen rear end), but while i am swapping this engine i figured if i was going to drop a 6spd in, now would be the time. My question is this, am i really going to run the risk of tearing that 5spd apart on the street? I dont track this car (not yet at least), and have heard the 6spd shifter kinda sucks, as well as the final gear for it is actually taller than the 5spd. Basically, if i keep this thing under 400hp, is that 5spd safe for the street? or should i swap? Sorry again for bringing this up, just wanted some realistic answers.
#10
i'm just talking about the main components. I plan on having the head done, as well as the pistons and rods. Just talking about the general idea. Could i "drop-in" a motor from a 2002 and use a head from the 94-97 era so my ECU will be happy. I know i should put this in another thread, but y'all seem to know plenty to answer this one.
#18
I guess while I am at it, i can ask another "stupid" question. Are the mazdaspeed pistons and rods really any different than the stock ones? I only ask, as i found some at a good price compared to $1500 i'll spend on aftermarket ones. If my target goals are less than 400hp, would these mazdaspeed pistons and rods hold up?