QuestionGood day Mr. Fitzcharles, I have a 71 and a 74 spitfire. I have loved Spitfires since my first in the mid 70's {overdrive tranny which I covet}. I am considering transforming the drive train from the 74 into a 302 ford v-8 which I have {HIPO} I would guess the tranny, drive shaft, and rear end will have to be changed to accomodate, any advise would be greatly appreciated. I would love to have a Spitfire Tiger. BE
AnswerHi Bruce,
I just completed a V-8 conversion of an MGB-GT to a Olds 215 cu. in. V-8 which is not normally as powerful as a Ford 302.
I can tell you that you should decide what you want to achieve first. Then do a lot of measuring before you start. For example I believe it will not be too hard to get the engine mounted but the transmission will be difficult as the Spitfire transmission nor the rear end be able to handle the power of a V-8. The whole rear end suspension and all is very light duty and I am sure will not handle the torque of a V-8. The swing axle design will not work at all.
Also, a quick heavy car needs more brakes that the Spitfire don't have. So it is a never ending modification process when you start.
Next to consider is that the Ford 302 is a heavy engine and even if you beef up the front suspension you for sure will have up set the weight distribution and it will then not be able to compete with a stock Spitfire in turns. You will think that you are driving an old Pick up truck on ice with bald tires.
It is different if it is to be a show car as it will be impressive to raise the hood and see a 302 in a Spitfire.
I have seen many V-8 conversions while working in dealerships and the light cars like the Spitfire and the MG Midget, while they were impressive to see a big V-8 under the hood, they could not get all that power connected to the ground. And were useless in the turns.
I did however enjoy doing my conversion and I told everyone that the car was not my hobby but the working on the car was my hobby and I had fun doing it.
Howard
