Need opinions on swap...

[Shanes1233]

So I have a ca20 currently in my mk1 XE hatch. Having about $2000 to spend on a swap, I've come to two choices. Ca18et or ka24e and piece together a turbo kit. Now, I know the ca18et has toothpick rods and a turbo the size of a peanut, but my power goals are around 180-200whp.

I can get the ca18 complete for about $300-$500 depending, and there is a guy near me selling good ca18det pistons and rods for $100. My thought is that if I can get the ca18 along with the Det rods and pistons as well as a rebuild kit and t25 turbo and some fuel upgrades for around $1000-$1300, that I can spend the rest on more suspension upgrades or better wheels and tires.

Going ka24e will cost around $1000-$1300 without boost possibly more depending on how extensive the rebuild will be. And I'll have nothing left for better suspension.

My suspension now is Megan s13 coilovers with full s13 swap up front and foxbody kyb agx in the rear with Suspension spring specialist springs. I'd like to do all new bushings, ball joints and also have the rear lower control arms modified to adjust rear alignment issues. I'm just looking for some input and opinions. Again, my power goals aren't huge and I'll be staying with the stock r180 rear end.

[CzechSilvia]

If I were to swap my engine, I personally would go for something with twin cam head BUT in a solely ka24e vs. ca18et scenario, I would put the ca18et engine with the det internals in my S12. Not only because that engine is supposed to be under the s12 bonnet but also because of the extra money for the suspention mods. Also built 8 valve ca engine is just super cool

[Shanes1233]

If I were to swap my engine, I personally would go for something with twin cam head BUT in a solely ka24e vs. ca18et scenario, I would put the ca18et engine with the det internals in my S12. Not only because that engine is supposed to be under the s12 bonnet but also because of the extra money for the suspention mods. Also built 8 valve ca engine is just super cool

I like the idea of sticking with the s12 engine. And suspension is always worth sacrificing some engine performance in my opinion. Without good suspension, power does you little to no good.

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