Not sure if this is a second Dio Tipo build if I finish it before the one I started first?
Looks like I need to do a build for profit, yah I know, that
always works out!
I have a body and can get as many more as I like.
I have a TR4A rolling chassis.
I have a tube bender and TIG welder.
I've already done the main portion of a Dio chassis from scratch, so altering the TR chassis would be fairly easy.
I have a choice of drivetrains on hand:
Both need to be freshened but cost is similar.
Hopped up Buick 225 V6/Muncie M20 (or T5).
2.8 Miata and five speed.
The real question becomes which drivetrain would be more likely to bring the best price?
The rest of the car will look the same either way.
I personally lean toward the Buick as the Dio Tipo's looks and TR4A chassis are clearly "Old School".
The Buick 225 would be "Period Correct" and dead simple to install or maintain.
Oh, and a bit more power, but maybe not as much RPM.
But would the more modern Miata parts attract more money?
DOHC would look the part of an exotic race car but it's very unlikely that the original F.I. will fit under the body.
That means lots of custom fab for ITB's, or an easier dual Weber conversion.
I did look at my row of engines and the Miata is not much taller than the Buick or even a Spitfire 1500, without the bulky EFI on it.
Not sure where the best market is for this, period correct retro build for "Adults", or retro look and modern engine for "Kids" ?
I'm also contemplating cutting off the rear of the TR chassis and converting it to four-link.
I've driven a lot of TR3/TR4 live axle cars and well remember lifting the inside wheel when cornering moderately hard.
Maybe that's a feature, not a bug, as it keeps young drivers, as I was, slowed down a bit?