Hi,
What sort of work needs to be done to translpant an L16 engine from a datsun 1600(B510) into a 1200 coupe.

More than it's worth
The L16 is a good engine, but not in a B110 series car.
If 1600cc is what you want, then spend a little on an A15. It will be a MUCH better choice.
Chris

but the datsun 1600 engine is a SOHC motor, with a cross flow head. Wheras the A15 is a SUHC with no cross flow. Wouldn't the 1600 be better?

Datto 1600 with a cross flow head????
Where do I get one of those from?

the L16 isn't a crossflow motor, but it will give you heaps more grunt much more easily and cheaply than an A15. If you can do the work yourself I'd say go for it, but if you're paying for the conversion it would probably be a different story. another advantage over the A series is the availability of strong, cheap 5spd boxes.

there's some pics in my members section of the x-member mods I've done to fit the L18.
http://datsun1200.com/modules/myalbum/photo.php?lid=1151
http://datsun1200.com/modules/myalbum/photo.php?lid=1152

L20B will also fit and for a street car that would be the pick of the L series engines.

what years are the cars that the L18 and L20B come from, because im looking at a car for classic racing

what years are the cars that the L18 and L20B come from, because im looking at a car for classic racing

where are you?

the first thing to do is thoroughly check the category's rules. In Australia, Historic Touring cars must use the original block.

L18's first appeared in H510s but I'm not sure on the year. I don't know what year the L20 was first used but the first model we saw that engine in Aus was the 200B (810 I think) in the late 70's.

There are quite a few L Series engined 1200's around.
The chief drawback is that the L series is much heavier than the A series and while you might get more HP and the overall power/weight might be a little better, but the handling of the car will suffer. It is likely to understeer like a pig.
In any event, To comply with the Historic Rules you will have to use an A series block and head

everyone always says that, but it really isn't the case. Have a look at the engine weights thread for some comparisons.

There is plently of very successful 1200 race cars with much heavier engines than L16's.