Building the dream engine. What would you use?

[kynetx]

You guys have probably seen my thread on the feasiblity of swapping a TD into a rocco: http://www.vwdiesel.net/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=2130
Well, it could be a little while if the gas engine in it is functional. I want to slowly gather parts for a dream engine. So, in that vein, I'm wondering what kind of buildup you guys would do? I'm looking for something that would be bulletproof, first and foremost. Since the Rocco is such a light car, it wouldn't need gobs of power to embarass all sorts of Hondas and other ricers.

1) First off, the bottom end. Best pistons, conn rods and such?
2) Best head? Obviously turbo, but is there a head that is considered the best?
3) injectors, glow system, etc
4) Injection pump/LDA etc.
5) intake and exhaust
6) Intercooler and related plumbing
7) cooling

TIA.

[janb]

probably an AHU '96-'99.5 TDI since it has a 'bolt-in" block (for your swap)

I've seen complete wrecked TDI's for ~$2000

The TDI is pretty impressive for power and economy, considering I got 55MPG (US) last week in '97 Passat @ 75 MPH

I desire a 75mpg Diesel (IDI or TDI) Scirroco or Corrado
someday... :wink:

[chrissev]

Best engine:  what are they putting in the diesel Polo's nowadays?  I wish they would import them to Canada.  I hear they can get 65mpg.

[Maarten]

Best engine:  what are they putting in the diesel Polo's nowadays?  I wish they would import them to Canada.  I hear they can get 65mpg.

1.4TDI...

the lupo (even smaller then the Polo) with some modifications reach almost 90MPG  :shock:

[kynetx]

Well, I was kind of hoping to avoid a complex computer and electronic setup and go with a IDI.

[BlackTieTD]

1.9L IDI turbo diesel.

with the money you save vs. a TDI swap, fix the crank bolt issue, upgrade the injectors/pump and fit an intercooler.

then go blow away some TDIs