Can you put any engine in an old car?

Question

I was wondering if it is possible to put any engine in an old car? I have a 78 camaro and I don't know what kind of motor options I have. What I want to do is put a newer camaro engine in it, like an 88 or even newer, I was also considering putting a mustang engine in it.

The reason I want to put a newer engine in it is so that parts are easier to come across and replace, also maintenance is much easier.

Answer 1

You can make pretty much any engine fit in your car, if you have enough skill. What you need to do is put a Chevy small block in, it will fit using your same engine mounts. I would suggest a 350, as they are plentiful and will drop right into your engine bay. They are also  cheap to buy and parts can be purchased almost anywhere for less than any other motor. Putting any other manufacture's engine in will entail a lot of trial and error, its best left to experts. Besides the 350 is the most popular engine made.

Answer 2

If you stick with Chevy engines it'll be easier as most will fit and the ones which don't will usually have an adapter kit available. Trying to fit a Ford engine will definitely require a lot o rigging which a kit may or may not be available for. Also some states have restrictions on engine changes and smog requirements, even on old cars. Texas doesn't, if the car is more than 24 years old, but some, such as California, do. Best to check with your DMV before you start.

Answer 3

The problem can  come up depending on how in depth you want to go. I think a good create motor swap would be the best bet. Lots of up grades for the old 350. lot of performance parts available.

Answer 4

you will have to install the computer and alot of wiring, actually parts for the olde roones isnt more expensive. i drive a 75, pontiac le-mans, my wife drives a 98' toyota corolla, once the blower motor went out on both of them at the same time. i priced them both. the corrolla's was 148 bux, the le-mans was $14.98!!! the rebuild kits for the older motors or even buying a crate motor would probably be cheaper than buying and converting the car for the newer motor.and you can still get both easily at your local auto parts store.

by the way, my old 350 is 33 years old and never been overhauled. all ive done to it was change all the gaskets in it about 4 years ago, so it hasnt costed me that much in maintenence.

Answer 5

You are wrong on the availability of parts and eaase of maintenance on newer engines. The older ones have aftermarket parts all over the place. And maintenance on the older carb engine is a piece of cake.Stick with the chevy V8 line. I would just stay with a carbed 350 or get a 383 stroker engine if you want more power. Putting a different make of engine in is a major undertaking. I would steer clear. There is a huge amount of stuff to change if you want fuel injectied engines.