On Tue, Dec 29, 2009 at 7:58 AM, Allan Streib <streib@cs.indiana.edu> wrote:

>
> Thought about a Bostig Zetec but can't part with that much cash right
> now. Thought about a VW I4, an AAZ TD, or a subie.  I'd really like
> something that fits under the stock lid and is not going to be
> completely blazing a new trail.
>
> My guess is I'll end up keeping the stock 2.1, but we'll see.
>
> Allan
>

  Given your stated requirments, you ought to consider an inline VW gas
motor transplant.  It seems to be the least expensive and least involved
replacment for a WBX.  You use most of the same stuff without any fiddling
around...sensors and instruments..and the VW inline gas motors are
inexpensive and plentiful.  They are simple durable motors, easy to work on
with cheap parts available.  With very minor altering of the engine
compartment (need a small amount of extra room below the decklid on the
driver's side to clear the intake) they (a 1.8 liter 8-valve head motor)
 fit totally under, exactly like the diesel motors do (the same block). Good
fuel economy (mine, with a manual tranny, gives 23.3 overall average
mpg) and decent power..
  Don Hanson