Possible to switch VW engine???

[69porsche]

I have a 67-912 with non matching but period correct engine. I like the car, yet in some aspects I would like some "punch", HP to the car as well. I was wondering for those who have either bought a 912 with a VW engine in it or those who made the conversion to a type 4 VW engine is there any regret or things that you enjoy about the engine that the 912 did not offer. I know there are some manufacturers of these type of engines that are extremely expensive yet they have the expertise to back it up, so not a knock on them. If I was able to I would put some $$$ in getting these engine in my 912, however I am looking at those engines that are found or possibly rebuilt with a few add on, etc, etc that can maximize torque and horsepower without that much expense...expense being nominal and different to each individual and yet there is a good sense in the old adage, you get what you pay for. I know there are alot of threads on this, but there seems more on the mechanical aspect of installation, HP, etc... All comments welcomed! Pro's vs Con's
Gordon

[jadewombat]

I don't have experience with that type of conversion to a 912, but a few things I'll throw out:

VW Type 1 1600 based engine--If you babied these engines and are diligent about oil changes, valve adjustments, etc. in stock form you "may" get as much as 100,000 miles but not likely. Once you start modifying them the life goes out the window, but a lot of fun for 50,000 miles. Most everything is available with the best components, aluminum case, nikasil cylinders, etc. Nowadays you can build a very strong stroker 2L. (100-150hp) engine for about $5000-6000 (like anything though the sky is the limit). These are the absolute lightest air-cooled 4 cylinder engines though, ~250lb. fully dressed stock--lighter is possible.

Precision Alloy Ltd.
http://vwparts.aircooled.net/Aircooled-Net-Mini-Stroker-VW-Long-Block-p/mini-stroker-long-block.htm

Type 4--Jake Raby, 'nuff said. Expensive with the shroud conversion, manifolds, and motor, but if you watch thesamba.com occasionally deals pop up. The cylinder heads and dropping valve seats are still the main thing to watch for, other than cost here. About 350lbs. and at least 100hp.

Polo Motor--About $20K. Yikes, but they're upwards of 200hp. Everything 911 in a 4 cylinder package.

Polo Motors

[Mark Henry]

76 912 came with a type 4 engine.
Stock 914 2.0 will give you 95hp, performance T4 starts at $5k and up over $20k. 120 to 180HP
As for the T1 you can make a nice light engine but they also get spendy but not as high as the T4.

Don't care about originality and $5k+ doesn't scare you ?
Do a subi conversion.