So the motor in my 85' is going to be getting removed and now it will be my play truck as I just bought a new car. I would love to drop something new into it and have a little more power then stock. I havent decided what the final purpose of the truck will be yet but will most likely be just a weekend warrior and maybe see some autocross track time. At first I wanted to swap in a 302 out of a mustang with the IRS (independent rear suspension) out of the 03-04 Cobra mustang. I dont mind having a sold rear axle but I figure if I want better handling I should go IRS. Second I thought it would be amazing and kinda funny to have an AWD truck. Not 4wd but AWD. Kinda like the old GMC Cyclone and Typhoon if anyone remembers those. The motor and running gear would come from a subaru WRX. But that would be one hell of a price tag and fabricating adventure. Im not looking for crazy power. Honestly 300hp would be plenty for now. Im open do ideas on motor and running gear options.
A strong turbo four would be a 3rz with a well built kit on it I think there's a member on here just shy of 300hp on 7 pounds of boost that will move your truck very well . As far as awd yea I rember the typhoon and cyclone two of the finest gm vehicles ever built and are extremely rare find like finding a Buick grand national for cheap but ...a awd Toyota would be fun but rwd is the way to go tire smoke is always better than traction
I'd honestly get a better IRS than the one in the 03-04 Cobra's. SC, LS, GS, 300ZX, 350Z, are a few that have plenty of aftermarket support and easier to find parts.
2003 Honda Civic Hybrid. I am seriously loving this near 50mpg haha I had the EFI 302 with the T5 and an 8.8" in my mustang and that was bullet proof. I know nothing about the Nissan and Toyota IRS systems. I know my buddy had a really build Nissan Skyline rear end for his drift 240 but I dont know any details
