Hot VWs magazine is interested in exploring the possibility of doing a VW Engine Build-Off, which would showcase a number of different air-cooled VW engine combinations, each compared on a computer-controlled flywheel dyno, during back-to-back tests. Those of you VW engine builders that are SERIOUS, I mean serious, about competing in some sort of engine build-off, I need to hear from you via e-mail. (My address is; snipped-for-privacy@hotvws.com) I want to hear from only the guys that are capable of providing a complete, ready to run engine to a location in southern California for this test. You are responsible for all shipping/transportation costs of that engine (and yourself!) to and from the dyno location (to be announced - TBA). You are also responsible for all parts that go into that engine. Nothing in the way of parts will be provided in this test. This engine will be under your control before, during and after the test - it belongs to you! I figure this test could happen next winter, giving everyone plenty of time to build an engine.
Now, what that engine is going to be, will be up to the findings of this request. And the tests used (hp, torque, head temp, oil temp, etc), will be up to you beforehand. Now, if I only get four builders, no deal. If I get ten builders with ten completely different ideas, no deal. As a start, I think this engine should be at least 2000cc, but maximum bore size is 94mm (sorry, no 4-inch bores). It should be considered an engine that could be driven on the street and fit into a sedan, and what that exactly means will be (TBA). It is to be aspirated (carburetors, manual fuel injection or EFI), with no turbos, blowers, nitrous, or any other power boosters allowed. It will run on gasoline (with no additives!), supplied at the dyno test, octane rating will be (TBA). It should have a cooling system, a charging system w/fan belt in use, and a muffler(s). This engine will not be placed in a car for performance test, drag racing, mileage or other infield testing. Only the dyno test will be used for this one. Why? Time and money! We are not Road and Track!
So guys, this is your chance to sound off. It is open to anyone. No one will see these letters other than the staff of Hot VWs. I will give you about two weeks to get in touch with me via the e-mail address found above. The outcome of this test could be a large story in Hot VWs, and the best combination (whatever that means), will get a complete story of what went into one of these engines! If I don't hear from you, I will assume that you are a non-player, and can not, for some reason, able to meet these basic guidelines (travel time, out-of-pocket costs, etc). Hope to hear from you soon, Dean Kirsten/ Hot VWs. My e-mail address is: snipped-for-privacy@hotvws.com