i have an 81 spider with a 2.0 engine---unfortunatly,the engine has a grapefruit size hole in the side of it!my need for advice renders the question "should i replace it with a different engine thats easy to find ? AND--if so, what make will bolt up to my automatic fiat transmission?" any suggestions??? fiat engines where i live are so NOT.. i feel an old carburated toyota or mazda or something,if itd bolt up would be easier to find,,,, and cheaper--maybe not, i just need advice...

First, I'm assuming that you are not subject to emissions testing where you live. Second, I'm guessing you're not trying to build "the world's fastest Spider" or spend a ton of money creating a unique chassis/powertrain combination.

The easiest way to get your car on the road is a salvage Spider motor; complete if possible. There may not be one in your local scrapyard, but they are not at all rare. A couple hundred for the motor, and another Franklin or two for freight, and you'll have a working engine at your doorstep.

You've asked about a carburetor Japanese motor. Carbs haven't been OE-issue for twenty years, so searching for one accepts all kinds of risks relating to reliability and condition of the donor engine. I don't know if you've ever done this sort of thing before, but an engine transplant is way more complex than some TV shows would have you believe. It ain't cheap either, with custom motor mounts and custom exhaust, to name just two. In your case, a new fuel delivery system, too, as Spider FI and carb fuel tanks and fuel pumps are different. And then there are the electricals, nothing plug-and-play for Fiat!

Why not post for a motor in Parts Wanted, giving your location. You may be surprised.

thanks man! your so right about the extra work putting a different engine in and im too old to go thru that crap again... ive done it in my younger days when i didnt see the work cause i had nothing but time... thanks for the advice,the car really is too nice to to not keep original... ill try what you said! thanks again!

Brett, Where are you located. I have a 79 carbed 2.0l missing the carb and intake, if you are interested. Regular email is mndwilliamson@earthlink.net.
r/
Michael