The Most Popular Engine Swap, Ranked

Choose the engine swap you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 24, 2024 06:49
Car enthusiasts often face the challenge of choosing the right engine swap to boost the performance, efficiency, or aesthetics of their vehicles. A well-chosen engine swap not only enhances the car's capability but also personalizes the driving experience. By ranking various engine swaps based on popularity, individuals can gauge which options are favored by the community and why they stand out. This dynamic ranking serves as a guide and a source of inspiration for those planning their next project. By participating in this vote, users contribute to a collective knowledge base that benefits all members of the community. Each vote helps to ensure that the most effective and admired engine swaps gain visibility and recognition, aiding others in making informed decisions.

What Is the Most Popular Engine Swap?

  1. 1
    2
    points
    Mazda 13B Rotary

    Mazda 13B Rotary

    A rotary engine from Mazda, known for its unique design and high power output from a compact size. It's a popular choice for swaps in lightweight sports cars.
    • Type: Rotary
    • Popularity Reason: Unique Design
  2. 2
    2
    points
    Honda K-Series

    Honda K-Series

    A line of four-cylinder engines from Honda known for their high performance and reliability. They are a popular choice for swaps into smaller, front-wheel-drive cars.
    • Type: Four-Cylinder
    • Popularity Reason: High Performance
  3. 3
    1
    points
    Chevrolet Small-Block

    Chevrolet Small-Block

    A series of V8 engines from Chevrolet, known for their simplicity and reliability. They have been a staple in American muscle cars and are popular for swaps due to their widespread availability.
    • Type: V8
    • Popularity Reason: Reliability
  4. 4
    0
    points
    Ford Coyote

    Ford Coyote

    A 5.0L V8 engine from Ford, known for its modern technology and high performance. It's a popular choice for muscle car and truck engine swaps.
    • Type: V8
    • Popularity Reason: Modern Technology
  5. 5
    0
    points
    Toyota 2JZ

    Toyota 2JZ

    A 3.0L inline-six engine from Toyota, known for its high power output and potential for tuning. It's especially popular in the drifting and drag racing communities.
    • Type: Inline-Six
    • Popularity Reason: High Tuning Potential
  6. 6
    0
    points
    GM LS

    GM LS

    A series of V8 engines from General Motors, known for their lightweight and compact design, making them a popular choice for a wide variety of engine swap projects.
    • Type: V8
    • Popularity Reason: Versatility and Performance
  7. 7
    0
    points
    Nissan SR20DET

    Nissan SR20DET

    A turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine from Nissan, known for its high power output relative to its size. It's a popular choice for swaps in smaller rear-wheel-drive cars, particularly for drifting.
    • Type: Inline-Four
    • Popularity Reason: Power-to-Size Ratio
  8. 8
    0
    points
    Subaru EJ25

    Subaru EJ25

    A 2.5L flat-four engine from Subaru, known for its distinctive boxer rumble and reliability. It's a popular choice for swaps in Subarus and even in some rear-wheel-drive applications.
    • Type: Flat-Four
    • Popularity Reason: Distinctive Sound
  9. 9
    0
    points

    Volkswagen 1.8T

    A turbocharged 1.8L inline-four engine from Volkswagen, known for its balance of performance and efficiency. It's a popular choice for swaps in VWs and Audis.
    • Type: Inline-Four
    • Popularity Reason: Efficiency
  10. 10
    0
    points
    BMW S54

    BMW S54

    A 3.2L inline-six engine from BMW, known for its high performance and use in the E46 M3. It's a popular choice for swaps in BMWs and other project cars looking for a high-performance engine.
    • Type: Inline-Six
    • Popularity Reason: High Performance

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular engine swap. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or swap is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 4814 views
  • 5 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each swap once every 24 hours. The rank of each swap is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Engine Swap

Mazda 13B Rotary
Rank #1 for the most popular engine swap: Mazda 13B Rotary (Source)
Engine swaps are a common practice among car enthusiasts. They involve replacing a car's engine with a different one. This can boost performance, improve reliability, or both. The process requires skill, tools, and patience. It is not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards can be great.

The idea of swapping engines dates back to the early days of automotive history. Car owners have always sought ways to make their vehicles faster or more efficient. Early swaps were often crude, involving trial and error. Over time, techniques improved, and the practice became more refined.

Today, engine swaps are more accessible than ever. Many companies offer kits and parts to make the process easier. These kits include mounts, wiring harnesses, and other necessary components. They save time and reduce the guesswork involved in fitting a new engine.

One reason for an engine swap is to increase horsepower. A more powerful engine can transform a car's performance. It can make the car faster and more fun to drive. Enthusiasts often choose engines known for their reliability and power output.

Another reason is to improve reliability. Some engines are prone to issues and may not last long. Swapping in a more reliable engine can extend the life of the car. This is especially true for older cars with engines that are hard to find or expensive to repair.

The process of an engine swap involves several steps. First, the old engine must be removed. This can be challenging, as it involves disconnecting many parts. Once the old engine is out, the new engine must be prepared. This may involve modifying the engine bay or making custom mounts.

Next, the new engine is installed. This step requires precision and care. The engine must be aligned correctly, and all connections must be secure. This includes fuel lines, electrical connections, and cooling systems. Once installed, the engine must be tested to ensure everything works as it should.

Engine swaps can also involve legal considerations. In some areas, regulations govern what engines can be installed in certain cars. These rules are in place to ensure safety and emissions standards are met. It is important to research these regulations before starting a swap.

Despite the challenges, many car enthusiasts find engine swaps rewarding. They offer a chance to learn more about how cars work. They also provide an opportunity to create a unique vehicle tailored to personal preferences.

Engine swaps are not limited to sports cars or performance vehicles. They can be done on trucks, SUVs, and even classic cars. The possibilities are vast, and the results can be impressive.

In conclusion, engine swaps are a popular way to enhance a car's performance or reliability. They require skill, tools, and patience but offer great rewards. Enthusiasts continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, creating unique and powerful vehicles.

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