FYI: Swapping Honda engines into classic cars provides thrilling power boosts and engineering marvels.
Putting a Honda Heart into a Classic Mini
Honda’s B or K Series engine swaps are popular among car enthusiasts aiming to inject performance into older vehicles. However, some classic cars, like the original Austin Mini, challenge even the most experienced with their petite frames. Despite being a giant in the automotive world, the original Mini is a small titan, historically lighter than 1,500 pounds.
Transforming a Mini with a Honda Engine
A notable project involved fitting a B16A1 engine into a restored MINI. This endeavor required significant modifications, including a roll cage, an enlarged trunk, upgraded brakes, and enhanced tires to handle the over fourfold increase in horsepower. The B16A’s 150 horsepower, known for making a Civic lively, turns a sub-2,000 pound Mini into a thrilling experience. The engine demands a custom tube frame for proper installation, squeezed into the space behind the radiator. The power is channeled to the front wheels using an Acura Integra transmission, while fender flares accommodate the broader track width necessary for this setup.
The Compact Giant: Small Engine, Mighty Power
Doubling the engine displacement from 848cc to 1.6L means the Mini carries most weight upfront. The B16A’s aluminum block offsets some of this weight gain, ensuring a unique driving dynamic that is as amusing as it is exhilarating. Rest assured, the Honda B-Series engine transforms the modified MK IV Mini into a powerhouse that defies its original specs.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
