Vroom.
This Sport 190 was one of approximately 50 Elise’s pulled from the production line to be factory track prepared for racing. These modifications included integrated roll bar, fire suppression, removable steering wheel, racing seats/harnesses, and a 1.8L DOHC VHPD engine made by the British auto manufacturer Rover. It was also lightened to weigh a mere 1600 lbs., so it truly drives like a go-kart on steroids. While today’s production Elise models (Series 2) come equipped with a Toyota power plant, the original models (Series 1 - 1996 to 2001) had Rover engines coupled to a 5 spd gearbox. The switch to the Toyota platform was made due to reliability issues with the Rover engines. Because the Rover engines were so unreliable, S1 Elise owners began to search for a suitable replacement platform. One of the more popular power plants has been the Honda 2.0L Type R (K20) with 6-spd transmission. Due to the popularity of this conversion, many kits have surfaced in the UK that provide the custom parts required to make the switch. While the Sport 190 with VHPD engine is indeed rare, the track-only toy is underpowered to say the least (approximately 175whp), or at least this owner thinks so. I’ve decided to box-up the rare VHPD with 5 spd gearbox (storing it in my barn), and set out in search of more power/speed. This is the story of my DIY conversion to a more suitable and updated power plant. For later comparison, here is a link to a video - Hot laps at Road America with the VHPD. http://vimeo.com/16341266
Just a rear view of the new widebody. Performance improvement is incredible!!
Recently took the car to BIR for testing where it performed better than it ever …
I used a two part liquid mix foam, shaped the body, and sanded to accommodate …
I decided to widen each tire by 3.5” (to the outside). This will require a …
Test fitted clam shell to measure for sheet metal aluminum that will compartmentalize the engine …
Since this build is custom, there are no off-the-shelf solutions for the header. Here you …
After putting the wheels back on the car, I temporarily hung the exhaust system for …
After reinstalling the rear sub-frame, I was able to re-attach the rear suspension components.
Basically, I’ll re-use the OE Acura CV joints and tripod joints and install them onto …
With the added power and torque of the K24, and the different gearbox geometry of …
While it’s pretty tight, the new Acura TSX 2.4L with RSX Type S 6 speed …
Finished off build with… Skunk2 Pro K Series Manifold Skunk2 Composite Fuel Rail Bosch ID725 …
Installed a K20 aluminum oil pan fitted with a Clockwise Motion sump baffle. This keeps …
Here’s where it pays to spend some money on a normally aspirated engine. Air flow …
ENDYN also balanced the crankshaft and entire rotating assembly to minimize wear on bearings and …
New 87.5mm RollerWave pistons (12.5:1) and coat piston skirts (Endyn custom design for the K24). …
I shipped the engine block to ENDYN in Ft. Worth, TX for machine work. Endyn …
I rebuilt/cleaned up the Acura RSX Type S transmission and modified the shift linkage slightly …
Because the new Acura K24 engine requires higher fuel pressure than the Rover VHPD did, …
I purchased a new aluminum high pressure / extra capacity radiator and installed a dual …
Because the Acura TSX engine operates at higher coolant pressure, it is recommended that it …
After removing the rear clam shell, suspension components and drive shafts, I was able to …
Next, I needed a transmission. In order to make life easier, it made sense to …
A few months back, I sourced the first component needed… an engine. K24A2: 2004 Acura …
As I indicated in the car description, the existing Rover VHPD engine is extremely unreliable …
Vroom.
Sonja Henie's Tutu ! that is a gorgeous track animal...
Awesome.
Looks incredibly well thought out. What a beautiful build. Cool to see how the Elise comes apart too.
You'll need to log in to post.
