Just mulling some things over, and I was wondering, is there any precedent for A-series 850 tuning?
I've seen a few articles of Downton putting together some hot 850's, pre-Cooper release, but I suspect it was a rather short-lived tuning revolution.

Thinking about making an under 1-Liter motor. This is probably the more frustrating path, but, it would be interesting if nothing else.
We've got a 998 block sitting next to an 850 block, and if the latter could be more than a fancy paperweight with a magic wand, that would be nice.

I think we'd probably convert to remote change first...

Ian,

Take a look at Vizard's book -- he has some info on the 850. It has a better bore/stroke ratio than the 948 so it could be a little screamer, but of course you're giving up cubic inches so it would probably have less horsepower than a 948. But you could try to convince PVGP to have an Under 850cc Class ...

Mark Palmer

Vizard's book is definitely the place to start http://www.amazon.com/Tuning-A-Series-Engine-Definitive-Performance/dp/1859606202. I vaguely recollect that the 850 was a class in rallycross in the UK so you might be able to find more info on the Internet.

That's what we're thinking Mark, something that revs for days. Might not go all *that* fast, but it will sound like it is!

If it were me, I'd build a parts-chaser out of it. Of course, you'd need a tub and some spare bits around.

That's what I did when I found myself with a presentable '73 Midget tub and a nice street 948 engine. The tub was missing an engine, fenders, a gearbox, a top, seats and lots of other bits (it was a former parts car).....but it was stuff I had around (or I could trade for in some cases).
My "parts chaser" has a 948 sedan engine (low compression) with a single SU carb. About 35 HP. It's lovely soft little thing to drive about on the street, will run on any fuel and gets amazing gas mileage.
It's not quite a rat-rod but also miles away from a show car. Very basic and simple with no rugs, patched seats and lots of "patina".
I run "948 cc" badges on the fenders, so everyone *gets* that it's a sub-liter car at cruise nights or car shows.

Even if you can't find a Mini tub, jam it in an America or 1100 tub and build a mellow, simple cruiser with classic license plates.

Here's mine: total investment = $275, including 4 new eBay tires and Tractor Supply paint and brush.

Love it! Looks great at 30 feet.

Oh boy - that is nice! Mack's right, looks great. I also like the idea of it being something that's nicely "broken-in".

I miss having a little British car to bop around town in. A little sprite would be just the ticket for the city living - perfect for trips to the ice cream shop with the Missus.