which rear? '80 or '76?

[maytag]

Well I feel I need to throw my 2 cents in on this subject. This will be quick. As for which rear end to use....
I have seen a stock FI automatic car out run the 5 speed turbo cars. So I wouldn't be so worried about the acceleration of your rear end as I feel the cars can always make up for that. My suggestion is go with the 390 out of your '80. Unless you live in the mountains I think you'll be happier this way.

!?!?!?!?


really?

I've never driven the turbo car.... but I have driven the automatic / FI'd car, and if you're telling me it can outrun the Turbo'd car... then that's pathetic.
Really; not to offend anyone, but this car is grossly underpowered as it is.... it is NOT fast, by any stretch of my imaginiation. In Automatic form, it'd be embarassing if it were'nt such a cool car.

I am VERY worried about the acceleration. VERY worried.

[mdrburchette]

Then slap in a 4:30, lighten up your rotating mass, open up the breathing and fuel intake and you'll be good to go. These cars have a lot of potential to be quick and fun and don't be afraid to drive them at higher rpms. Shoot, I rarely use 5th gear on the highway because I like to keep mine wound up.

[maytag]

Then slap in a 4:30, lighten up your rotating mass, open up the breathing and fuel intake and you'll be good to go. These cars have a lot of potential to be quick and fun and don't be afraid to drive them at higher rpms. Shoot, I rarely use 5th gear on the highway because I like to keep mine wound up.

NOW THAT'S WHAT i'M TALKING ABOUT!!!

I started reading Guy Crofts' book yesterday, on tuning / modifying the motor. I've got my 2l I'll be building to what he would refer to as a "stage II" (or thereabouts) and I'll keep doing all I can to lighten the thing up.

When I say they're not fast, I don;t mean they can't be quick and fun to drive. Mine is already fun to drive, and is 'close' to quick. It's a relative term though. I come from Superbikes. 200HP in a 350lb package, makes my fat a** the biggest part of the equation.
I've owned some seriously 'FAST' cars as well. So don;t misunderstand; I didn't buy this car (my 3rd Spider!) 'cuz I want it to be fast. For me, it's all about enjoying the drive. The sounds, the look. The rev-happy TC motor.

You get the picture.

[mdrburchette]

Not a problem. Most of us know our Fiats don't set the roads on fire but we have fun seeing what we can get out of them. We also like it when people share their mods so let us know what you end up doing and how it affected your performance.

[So Cal Mark]

if I had a Turbo car and was outrun by a stock automatic I'd feel mighty silly. Maybe the turbo was installed backwards?

[boogiedude]

if I had a Turbo car and was outrun by a stock automatic I'd feel mighty silly. Maybe the turbo was installed backwards?

[spiderrey]

I only use 5th to break thru 100mph.

[So Cal Mark]

I thought you only dismantled cars?

[maytag]

Maybe that's HOW he dismantles 'em?

[spiderrey]

Mark, your so full of one liners. Maybe you should stop playing with cars and go after Lenos job.

[So Cal Mark]

I could do that in a nanosecond, and for a little bit less money