Potentially Easier Swaps (with modifications):
* GM Small Block Chevy (SBC) (305, 350, etc.): This is a popular swap due to the abundance of parts and readily available engine mounts and adapters. You'll likely need motor mounts, and potentially transmission adaptations, depending on your chosen transmission.
* GM LS-series (LS1, LS2, LS3, etc.): These newer GM V8s are also popular, offering a good power-to-weight ratio. However, they'll require more significant modifications, including custom engine mounts, wiring harnesses, and potentially a different transmission and computer system.
More Difficult Swaps (requiring extensive fabrication):
* Ford Small Block (Windsor, Cleveland): These require significant custom fabrication for engine mounts and likely other components.
* Big Block Chevy (BBC): These are large and powerful engines, demanding substantial modifications to the engine bay, potentially including firewall modifications.
* Other manufacturers' V8s: Essentially anything outside GM's family of engines would be a very involved project, requiring extensive custom fabrication and potentially significant changes to the car's structure.
Crucial Considerations:
* Transmission: The transmission you choose is just as important as the engine. Will you reuse the original transmission, requiring an adapter? Or will you use a different transmission altogether, potentially needing a new driveshaft and other modifications?
* Wiring: Engine wiring harnesses often need significant modification or replacement, especially with newer engines like LS engines. You'll likely need a custom wiring harness or adapt the existing one.
* Exhaust: The exhaust system will need to be custom-fabricated.
* Engine Mounts: These are crucial, and usually require adapters or custom fabrication, especially with non-GM engines.
* Cooling System: A high-performance V8 will likely require upgrades to the cooling system.
Recommendation: Before starting any V8 swap, thoroughly research your chosen engine and transmission combination. Consult forums and online communities dedicated to Oldsmobile Cutlass and engine swaps. This will provide invaluable information regarding specific modifications needed for your chosen engine. Starting with a GM small-block is usually the easiest route for someone with less experience.
