Hi all, I found this post and site whilst searching for info for my own rover v8 which is still fitted to the original p6b it was shipped here in. The rover v8 with su's is a pig and as they say if a rover v8 isn't leaking oil, there's none in it. But neither problem is incurable. They mostly leak oil into the rocker valley but also from the sump. But a well assembled engine with new gaskets and quality gasket sealer, that loctite blue gear works best, (sorry don't recall the code but i'm sure you know which) and your on your way to a decent little v8.

If you need a decent anchor for your tinny the standard manifold and SU's a damn good place to start. If you must stay carburetted, which is a marginally cheaper option, replace the induction gear with an offenhauser manifold, Like this one! , and an appropriately sized holley depending on internal modifications and exhuast system used, and you'll cure a good majority of the breathing problems. If your budget is limited hunt around for a p6b 3500s, the exhuast headers used on them were of much better design with flow being significantly improved.

Deep six the standard 4sp manual or the auto for a Supra 5sp and you've got yourself a very nice package to drive.

However.

If your budget allows there are many more options available.

Grab yourself the injection manifold from a 3.9V8 from the disco or range rover. Add a wolf ems, a CDi ignition MSD or similar, and decent distributor and you've got a very reliable reasonably powerful little donk. 350HP wouldn't be especially radical.

Now if you wanted to go a little further, decompress the bastard and add an S102 Sprintex or similar, a decent blower cam and a some nice port and valve work and you'll liven just about anything up.

Wrap it all up in a datto of any sort and you've got yourself a little weapon. A 260z would benefit from the same config.

Don't rev them above 5000rpm too often, unless you like oil leaks on your drive way and electrical problems. (rod through alternator)

The lexus V8 is another awesome engine, but they are big and heavy. Aside from major modifications to the engine bay the added weight over the front end of a 1200's front end would probably cause some serious handling issues.

I've never done anything to a datto than flog the #### out of one that was nearing the end of its natural life. We've had a couple in our time and could never kill it. Had 2 1600's a 1200 sedan and Wagon and flogged the backside out of a mates 120y. I was constantly amazed how much it would take to blow a head gasket, and we tried. Used to live at Hawthorne and would drive them down to the mudflats at lytton, near the bike clud, and go nuts and give it all we could. I'll never forget getting about 8 feet of air over the top of a bike jump (before the club was where it is today) landing on the front cross member and continuing for the rest of the evening then driving home. I think the last one was purchased for $200 and was the best money i've ever spent.

accidentally posted here check the other Rover V8 post.