K-Series engine in the Lotus Elan S1?

[shaun463]

Hey guys, I've been wondering - would a Rover K-Series (Lotus VHPD variation) fit in a Elan S1? If so, what would be needed to do so?

[Dag-Henning]

- and why add more to the "Lots of trouble......" - ?? The Rover engine was never the strong part of the Elise, I guess.......
Dag

[nebogipfel]

Why would you want to take a rare classic car and customise it?

[rgh0]

It would fit for length and width as it is a very compact engine. However it is a relatively tall engine and may be a tight fit for height. With a shallow sump and careful vetrtical location you could probably make it fit.

The engine does not have a great reliability reputation driven mainly by recession of the wet cylinder sleeves on their to narrow mounting lip resulting in head gaskets blowing. But it is light and can deliver good HP when developed. However it is a relativelly narrow bore long stroke motor compared to many modern 4 valve engines which limits it ultimate capability

cheers
Rohan

[shaun463]

OK - reliability doesn't really matter as I need the information for something . Thanks much for the fast and honest replies =).

[elan_fan]

The K series was engine of choice for a while with Caterham. I have one in my Supersport. Sump choice is a shallow sump or dry sump both could be bought off the shelf from Caterham. Dave Andrews of DVA is the guru on the K series. I have a Caterham 6 speed gearbox attached to mine which is based on a ford box so that is an option. The K is a long stroke motor but still a revver 200HP is quite an easy figure to achieve with throttle bodies and an ecu. As for head gasket probs the latest head gaskets and PRRT thermostat set up goes a good way help with reliability.

regards
Mark