Considering a 240 Z Engine Swap for Your Austin-Healey? What to Know

For Austin-Healey enthusiasts facing the challenge of sourcing original, increasingly rare, and expensive engines, alternative powerplants have become a topic of considerable discussion. Among these alternatives, the engine from the Datsun 240Z, often referred to simply as the “240 Z engine,” has emerged as an intriguing option for engine conversion. This article delves into the considerations surrounding a 240 Z engine swap into an Austin-Healey, drawing insights from discussions within the classic car community and expert perspectives.

The conversation around this conversion often begins with practicality. As highlighted in a recent forum discussion, finding a replacement Healey six-cylinder engine can be both difficult and costly. This scarcity naturally leads owners to explore more readily available and potentially more affordable options. The 240 Z engine, known for its robust inline-six design and relative abundance, presents itself as a viable candidate.

However, the decision to deviate from the original engine is not without its nuances. One of the primary concerns raised by purists and enthusiasts alike is the impact on the vehicle’s originality and, consequently, its resale value. While some argue that modifications can detract from a classic car’s worth, others, like the original poster in the forum, prioritize the joy of driving and the enhanced reliability that a modern engine can offer. This perspective emphasizes building a car to be enjoyed on the road rather than solely as a financial investment.

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Pros and Cons of a 240 Z Engine Conversion

Choosing a 240 Z engine for your Austin-Healey conversion brings with it a set of advantages and disadvantages that are worth careful consideration.

Advantages:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Generally, 240 Z engines and transmissions can be sourced at a more accessible price point compared to original or rebuilt Healey units. This can make the prospect of getting a non-running Healey back on the road more financially feasible.
• Reliability and Parts Availability: The Nissan L-series engine, which powers the 240Z, is renowned for its reliability. Furthermore, parts are generally easier to find and often more affordable than those for classic British engines.
• Performance: The 240 Z engine offers comparable horsepower to the original Healey engine, and with modern enhancements, it can even provide a performance upgrade.
• Modern Transmission Options: Swapping to a 240 Z engine often includes the option to use a more modern and efficient transmission, potentially improving the driving experience with smoother shifts and better highway cruising.

Disadvantages:

• Impact on Originality and Resale Value: Modifying a classic car with a non-original engine will inevitably impact its originality. For some collectors, this significantly reduces the car’s value. However, for those building a driver’s car, this might be less of a concern.
• Fabrication and Installation Complexity: Unlike installing a correct Healey engine, a 240 Z engine swap requires custom fabrication for engine mounts, transmission adaptation, and potentially modifications to the engine bay or tunnel. This adds complexity and cost to the project.
• “Hacking Through the Jungle”: As one forum contributor aptly put it, a 240 Z swap is less common than, say, a V8 swap. This means there’s less readily available information and off-the-shelf parts, requiring more bespoke solutions and potentially increasing the overall project difficulty.

Expert Insights and Community Knowledge

The forum discussion highlights valuable resources for anyone considering this conversion. Richard Mayor, known in online communities as “Izacarguy,” has firsthand experience with a Datsun engine swap into a Healey. His “Datsun Healey,” featuring a 280Z engine (an evolution of the 240 Z engine), serves as a real-world example of this conversion.

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Another key contact mentioned is Mark Lambert of Lambert Auto in Nashville. Reportedly, Mark has not only performed 240 Z engine conversions on Healeys but even created a booklet detailing the process. Reaching out to experts like Mark can provide invaluable insights into the specific challenges and solutions involved in such a swap.

Exploring Alternatives: V8 and BMW Swaps

The forum discussion also touches upon alternative engine swaps, particularly V8 conversions. V8 swaps into Healeys are a well-trodden path, with established communities, resources, and even Healey V8 registries. While a V8 offers a significant horsepower increase, it may also alter the car’s handling and character due to increased weight.

Randy Forbes, another forum contributor, suggests a more modern approach: using a BMW inline-six engine, specifically the 3.2-liter S52 or the higher-performance S54. These modern BMW engines offer impressive power and technology, but as Randy notes, they present their own set of challenges regarding mounting and integration due to their original slanted installation.

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Making the Decision: Your Healey, Your Choice

Ultimately, the decision of whether to undertake a 240 Z engine swap, or any engine conversion for that matter, is a personal one. It hinges on your priorities for the car. Are you aiming for concours originality, or are you seeking a reliable and enjoyable classic driver? Are you comfortable with custom fabrication, or do you prefer a more straightforward restoration path?

While a 240 Z engine swap can offer a cost-effective and reliable route to getting your Austin-Healey back on the road, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, research thoroughly, and seek advice from those with experience. Exploring resources like online forums and expert mechanics specializing in classic car modifications can provide the knowledge needed to make an informed decision that aligns with your vision for your Austin-Healey.