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Hi Everybody I'm new to this list. I have been thinking of building a 7 based more on the original chassis narrower than the book chassis which I think is about 2 inches wider than the original 7. I thought of using the Suzuki motor and transmission from the Samari but they are getting harder to find up here. My fiance bought a new Suzuki F orenza. It has GM Ecotec motor. I think variants are in the new Saturn and pontiac rear wheel drive sportscars so they should be getting more common. Has anybody looked at these motors. It did not appear to be one of the current choices but with the right parts it could be a great motor. I think it is also in the Cobalt as well.

At the top of the page click the Search button and type in "ecotec". 16 threads with Ecotec...

There was a terrific article on racing with the Ecotec in 'Race Car Engineering,' subtitled something like '1000bhp off the shelf.' I think the beginning of the year. I'm having no luck digging it out right now.

They suggested that there's already whatever upgrade you want available OEM for your existing block, but of course it's going to cost you. Still, literally, they made it sound like you could yank it out of your Cobalt and put it back together as you want it.

That engine is all over the place, like the SoCal Speedshop Ecotec Lakester. Definitely living up to some potential.

http://www.gm.com/automotive/gmpowertra ... /index.htm

http://www.ecotecpower.com/

Lingenfelter was putting out 1000 whp with them no problems.

As far as the block, you shouldn't be able to destroy it in this kind of an application. It's basically 1/2 an LS1. 6 bolt main, deep skirt block.

With a narrower than book chassis I think you'd best be looking at the shape and sizes of various transmissions first ...