So while I do enjoy the performance of the stock 2.8, i'm thinking about a upgrade down the road. From all i've red the 3.4 pr is the easiest swap to complete. As well as fairly easy to hit 300hp with a 10psi turbo system and supporting features. My question is this, for a guy with limited funding what is the most cost effective swap? I have plenty of knowledge and mechanical know-how just looking for a financially feasible option. I have the stock 4 speed manual in the car now, how would that hold up as well with the swap? Just curious on your guys opinions. I been getting a nasty itch as of late to do this. Performance first then worry about the paint and body. lol Any info is appreciated
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03:42 PM
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punkguy0017 Member
Posts: 78 From: Huntington Sta. , NY Registered: Dec 2010
Hell yes i agree man im going to do an engine swap to a 350 chevy 5.7 cheap very affordable millions of performance parts the list is endless and a hell of a more horsepower thn just 300 without a turbo once supercharged or turbo we talking atleat 650 good luck man.
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05:37 PM
Boni Member
Posts: 114 From: Grodzisk Maz. Poland Registered: Dec 2010
I suggest, first set up HP level you want. Next consider all options on this level, with HP/$. Couse f.e for me in EU is no doubt that most cost effective upgrade for fiero is 3800 N/A. But this is far away from 300HP, if somebody care about 300HP...
If you pick up a 3.4 from a yard, it may be in the condition to just need a cleaning and install - but would only be "stock" so you need to coonsider the cost of "building" the motor - with the parts required to run the turbo. So I would think you would be into the motor say 2K. Maybe less if you assemble yourself. Add the cost of the turbo? I have no clue what a decent reliable turbo setup would cast but let's say 500.00? So now, before you even have it installed, you have 2500.00 in the motor. I beleive you will need some ECM work, programing, etc. to run a 300hp trubo charged 3.4?
Now consider the 3800SC. If you are patient, you should be able to find a low mileage series 2 with trans (4spd auto) for 800.00 or less. Buy the premade wiring harness for 700.00, A Stickpony reporgrammed chip, smaller pulley and a good flowing exhaust. Build your own mounts, build your own axles and maybe cost you 3k! It's a little more work to do the swap but it's not that hard.
In my opinion, if you want the most "bang" for your buck, you would be best served by the 3800SC. I have done the "big" four swaps. 4.9, Built 3.4, 3800SC and 350 SBC. The 4.9 is what it is. A big torque monster w/200hp that cost 1500.00 total (I got a screaming deal on the motor and trans). The built 3.4 is nice and it retains the "stock" look but I doubt it's much over 160 - 175hp and cost around 2000.00 just for the motor, machine work and parts - assembled ourselves. The 3800SC was low mileage 03 Bonny motor - motor and trans was 650.00 - all totaled running and driving cost 2500.00. The 350 is a rebuilt 70 4 bolt, bored 030 - upgraded cam, 2.02 heads, performer intake, headers, etc. An honest 350 hp at the crank motor. Cost about 1000.00 in machine work and parts. I already had the Archie kit but the basic one is 950.00 and you still need to buy a decent clutch setup. You could do this swap for 2500.00 or less if you already have a good 350 to work with. To get it to 650hp as stated above will cost some serious dollars.
If you are patient and "shop" around, I think you could do anyone of these swaps for 3k or less depending on what you want out of the motor. A simple swap to a stock 3.4 would be the cheapest but your gains are a few more HP and toruque plus a better more reliable motor. The 4.9 is a good swap but your HP is limited unless oyu want to spend some serious dollars for cam and head work for little gain. The 3800SC with the right pulley, tune and exhaust can get you close to 300hp - takes very little "mod" work but has much more potential/aftermarket support for future upgrades. The 350 has pretty much endless aftermarket support but it cost dollars to get the big gains and then you run into drive train reliability. Of course you have the LSx options but you are talking more money.
As stated above - figure out what you want out of the car - will it be a daily driver? Weekend cruiser, ocaisional track car, etc. There are a lot of options and opinions out there. Everyone has there own thoughts on what is "best". What's "best" for you is for you to decide. Good luck and keep us posted on your project.
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01:10 PM
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Darksyde Member
Posts: 611 From: Tonawanda,NY Registered: Oct 2009
