Building an RS replica. Polling for color and engine.
 

I am having an RS replica built by Jimmy Deering, but can't decide on color and engine.

The original color of the donor is Bahama Yellow, but is currently black. What would your color combo be if you had your choice for a bare metal paint?

As for the engine: Currently have a 78 3.0 with a 915. I was planning on putting some 40's Webers on it, but was thinking of maybe going with a 3.6. Would you do a 3.2SS/Webers on the current 3.0 or would you go with a 3.6 (of unknown history or of the higher mileage variety). I figure the cost would be approximately the same. I assume the power output would also be similar. Which is more fun?

Thanks.

How do you define fun?

that is a good question. I drove a 3.2SS once and thought that was a lot of fun because it reved a lot like a motorcycle engine. I guess I like going through the gears and hearing the engine in the back rev like that.

I'm afraid I don't think the cost would be anywhere close. I've done a 3.2 and a 3.6 into my car with almost all of the work myself. Oil cooling and conversion parts for the 3.6 will cost an extra $4k and the 3.0 will not sell and pay for the 3.6.

I'd estimate an extra $10k when it is all said and done for the 3.6, with the unknown of a tired motor. I bought one which was supposedly rebuilt and I ended up paying to rebuild it again, which was another $10k hit.

Since you are working with Jimmy Deering and not one of the high end shops, I'll assume budget is an issue?

No offense. I believe I've seen many of the threads about Jimmy Deering. They seem to be either fan mail or hate mail, occasionally both all in one.

Good luck,

Doug

Since no one gave an answer
 

ORANGE......Solid

Gulf Blue with an orange racing stripe


SATIN BLACK with a GLOSS BLACK RACING STRIPE....


there are my choices...

I would use the original yellow. Also, a RS (replica) should have a 2.7.... ;)

Leave the 3.0 liter with carbs. I've done a 3.6 conversion, it is going to cost more than you think.

Colour = Viper Green... End of story.

Engine = Keep the 3.0 and go with after market EFI (MOTEC) with PMO throttle bodies.

It could be a modern interpretation of the RS concept.

Similar to this ST replica...

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1240879509.jpg

How authentic of a replica; very then everything [IMO] should be period correct.
Otherwise... Whatever floats your boat or in this case spins your wheels......

Viper green + 3.2 SS with 46mm PMOs, twin plug, 10.5:1, aggressive cam profile + as lightweight as possible

Why not do a modern interpretation of the RS concept?

A period correct replica is nothing new. There are many on here in various threads.
All great cars but why not be a little different and use modern technology to build something unique?

One thing to consider... Potentially better fuel economy gains is something we can't ignore for much longer.
Our classic cars need to be cleaner and more frugal if they're going to be welcome on the roads of the future.

Think of it this way... If Porsche were still building the RS from the 70s today would it have a modern EFI? (I'm dreaming here but what if?)

I like the 3.2SS with carbs, but I think the 40's might be too small for that. I'd look into some PMO 46's or 50's or PMO EFI. Pick a color you are happy with.

Unfortunately, I do not have as deep a pocket as some Pelicanites. Jimmy is wrapping up on my '72. Although I have yet to see the finished product, he has done much more than initially agreed upon. We're only in the initial stages of talking about the RS car. Hopefully I get to see my '72 car this weekend and we can go on from there about the RS car.

color. hmmm what about black w/ bahama yellow stripe.

Thanks for the input. I will do more research into this area. Sounds interesting.

OK

That pretty much answers it. You want the smallest possible motor that will give you the forward impetus you desire.

2.5L ??

oh - hey - what about emissions regs.??

I did this. Had a black '72 T and I'm allergic to changing colors. Used a stock Motronic 3.2. Nice combo.

On a Bahama Yellow car, I'd keep in the same family of colors and go Signal Yellow. Like this track car I used to own (originally gold metallic):

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1240894160.jpg

BTW, Jimmy has a 3.2 available.

Hey, I still have my '72 rep and its red. I bought some Carrera RS decals but have not put those as I was looking to go to a lighter colour with it. I guess the choice is yours. What colour do you want to put a smile on your face ? Is it one that says 'I'm cool' to someone else or one that says 'thats really cool' to you. If you want the car to look slick modern got for a metallic or non-metallic for a real retro look. Decals and the right colour cordination of wheels will make the car.

Have you considered metallic bright silver with black decals and anodised/polished detailed wheels for the contemporary look?

Powerwise what are you looking for? Track work? Open road? Thrills of a high revver at every traffic light?

The 3.0 is a strong motor but may be heavier than the earlier 2.4L which will happily give you 2.7L with the right engine builder. I love MFI but EFI would be great with a 3.2L. Bang for buck the 3.2L over the 3.6 as the 3.6 is heavier. You sould be able to achieve a well balanced car with an awesome 3.2L and the right suspension work for your needs.

I'd be interested to hear about your journey on deciding the final stages for your car as I'm going to be getting there soon myself.

I'm always up for an opinion... :)

Keep the 3.0 and either go "back" to carbs or go with EFI update. I personally like the idea of the later, but I think carbs would give you more of an early car feel. (Anyone else have an opin on that?)

Colors...go back to the original Bahama Yellow. That's just the "purist" in me that want to bring it back to "original". Plus, it's a good color. If not, I like the oranges. Just don't do red or a slate gray metallic...I'm trying to decide between either of those for my car. ;)

I have a collection of "what if" pictures of the colors I'd like to own someday. Here's a sample:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1240937291.jpg


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1240937319.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1240937337.jpg

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1240937400.jpg