For Austin-Healey enthusiasts looking to breathe new life into their classic cars, engine conversions can be an appealing option. Among these, the idea of a 240 Z engine conversion has surfaced, promising a blend of reliability and performance. This article delves into the discussion surrounding this swap, drawing from a recent forum conversation and offering insights for those contemplating a similar project.
The conversation began with a Healey owner, pser1947, seeking information about a potential 240 Z engine and transmission conversion for their Austin-Healey 3000, which was missing its original powertrain. The appeal was clear: the perceived affordability and availability of the 240 Z engine compared to increasingly rare and expensive original Healey engines.
However, the forum responses highlighted several crucial considerations beyond just initial cost. Kevin (sliproc) raised a significant point about resale value. While a 240 Z engine swap might seem budget-friendly upfront, it’s not a common modification like a V8 conversion. This uniqueness could impact the car’s value when it comes time to sell, potentially deterring purists and collectors.
The discussion then turned to practical advice and alternatives. Rick (HealeyRick) pointed to Richard Mayor on the BCF forum as someone with direct experience with this type of conversion. He also shared a link to a Bring a Trailer auction featuring a Nissan-powered Austin-Healey 3000, showcasing a real-world example of this modification. Furthermore, Rick suggested contacting Mark Lambert of Lambert Auto, who reportedly performed a 240 Z engine conversion and even created a booklet detailing the process. This highlights that while not mainstream, the 240 Z engine swap has been successfully executed before.
Kevin further elaborated on the complexities, suggesting that while the initial engine cost might be similar to a Healey engine, the 240 Z conversion would likely involve significant fabrication work. He contrasted this with the well-trodden path of a V8 swap, where ample resources, registries, and readily available parts exist. A V8 swap, while deviating from originality, offers a known quantity in terms of installation and potential performance gains, often doubling the horsepower. The 240 Z engine conversion, in comparison, could be seen as venturing into less charted territory.
Larry (hipo528) shared his positive experience with a Chevrolet 260 engine swap in his Austin-Healey, emphasizing the lightweight nature of the engine and ease of modification. Richard Mayor (Izacarguy) directly contributed to the thread, showcasing his “Datsun Healey” with a 280Z engine, visually confirming the feasibility of a Nissan engine in a Healey. Bobby (Britcarsource) reinforced the advice to consult Mark Lambert, emphasizing Lambert’s reasoning behind choosing the 240 Z engine conversion beyond just “how-to,” suggesting there are specific advantages to this approach.
Randy (Randy Forbes) offered another perspective, suggesting a modern BMW 3.2L inline-6 engine as a powerful alternative, while also mentioning he had a spare Healey 3000 engine available. This introduced the option of either sticking with a potentially more complex but powerful modern engine swap or returning to a (rebuilt) original Healey engine.
Ultimately, the forum discussion underscores that while a 240 Z engine conversion into an Austin-Healey is possible and has been done, it’s not a straightforward or universally accepted path. Prospective converters should carefully weigh the initial cost savings against potential fabrication challenges, resale value implications, and the availability of support and resources compared to more common swaps like V8s. Consulting experts like Mark Lambert and researching existing 240 Z engine conversion projects are crucial steps. Exploring alternatives like V8 or even modern inline-6 BMW engines, or sourcing a rebuilt original Healey engine, should also be part of the decision-making process.
For enthusiasts prioritizing originality, maintaining classic value, or seeking a well-documented and supported conversion, the 240 Z engine swap might present a steeper learning curve. However, for those seeking a unique, potentially cost-effective, and reliable powertrain solution, particularly if performance and driveability are key priorities over absolute originality, the 240 Z engine conversion remains a viable, if less common, option worth investigating further.
