1. Your Goals:
* Performance: Do you want more power and speed?
* Reliability: Are you looking for an engine that's less prone to issues?
* Budget: How much are you willing to spend on the engine and installation?
* Driving Experience: Do you want to maintain the original feel of the car, or are you willing to change the character of the car?
2. Available Engines:
* Original Fiat 850 Engine: This is the easiest and most affordable option. You can find rebuilt engines or rebuild your existing one. You can also look for performance upgrades for the original engine, like tuning or modifications.
* Fiat 128 Engine: These engines are slightly larger and more powerful than the 850 engine, and can be adapted to fit the Spider.
* Ford Pinto Engine: This is a popular swap for Fiat 850s due to its availability and affordability. You'll need to fabricate custom mounts and modify the firewall.
* Other Options: There are other engines that have been used in Fiat 850 Spiders, like the Fiat 131 engine, but these may require more extensive modifications.
3. Considerations:
* Space Constraints: The engine bay in the Fiat 850 Spider is small, so you'll need to make sure the engine you choose will fit.
* Transmission Compatibility: You'll need to make sure the transmission is compatible with the new engine.
* Installation Complexity: Some engine swaps are easier than others. Be prepared for potential challenges and the need for fabrication.
* Cost: The cost of an engine swap can vary widely depending on the engine you choose and the amount of work you do yourself.
Recommended Steps:
1. Research: Learn as much as you can about different engines and their compatibility with the Fiat 850 Spider.
2. Contact Specialists: Talk to mechanics or Fiat specialists who have experience with engine swaps.
3. Consider Your Budget: Make sure you have a realistic budget for the engine swap.
Resources:
* Fiat 850 Clubs: Join a Fiat 850 club or forum for advice and resources.
* Online Forums: Search online forums dedicated to Fiat 850s for engine swap information.
Remember, swapping an engine in a classic car like the Fiat 850 Spider is a significant project. Be sure to do your research and plan carefully to ensure the swap is successful.
