Feedback on Turn Key Crate Motors from the “Engine Factory” in New Jersey.

[kayakjack]

Originally Posted by Voyager

Gentlemen,

My overall goal is to build a “street” car with balanced power, handling, and looks. I know this is going to sound crazy, but my current sports car is a highly modified Miata. After upgrading basically everything (supercharger, etc), it’s pretty entertaining to drive on the back roads. Now I want a Miata on steroids.

I assume a small block will allow the best handling. I assume a 351w will give me a decent amount of power (400ish), with room to grow. Want classic idle, but still retain reasonable drivability. My engine budget is about 8-9K.

I will continue to research engine options, starting with the folks you all mentioned above.

Thanks,
Bob

Interesting. I too am a Miata driver. I had one of the first ones sold in the US. Uprated it with supercharger etc. My current one (1999) is pretty much stock. Great cars.

The Superformance is the other side of the sports car spectrum. Lots of power with a "heavier" feel.

I have a Ford 351w crate engine. 385 hp. One of these might fit what you are looking for. Decent power. Great driveability. Bulletproof reliability. Reasonable cost. The only downside I see is - nobody ever has enough power. 385hp sounds like a lot when you are used to a Miata, but believe me, after driving it for a while 100 more horsepower will sound like a good idea.

That said, I think my motor is a great compromise of power, driveability, reliability and cost.

Jack