2.0 Pinto vs 1.8 Zetec vs 1.6 CVH

[Jeff R]

Being a fan of the Zetec engine I was wondering which engine actually performs better on the road?

I would assume that being overhead cam, the Zetec produces most of its grunt above 3000 RPM.

The Pinto/CVH engines being older design are more traditional and produce do particular power band in standard trim.

These engines however when fitted to a car weighing around 600 kg will all perform reasonably similar.

So, putting people on the spot here - which is the better engine for on the road performance (not bhp) in standard trim in terms of tractability or grunt?

[stu999]

Trouble is, a comparison cannot readily be made. All can be real pigs if not set up properly, and conversely be cracking cars if the time is taken to ensure they are working properly in their respective new homes.

'Standard trim' is also difficult to measure. Most transplants will have had at least an exhaust change, and probably non-standard induction too. The right (or wrong...) choices here can have a big impact on performance and driveability

[darthurs]

Pinto, of course.

Although I may be biased in that opinion.

Dan

[Neil Purdie]

As Stu says, a comparison is pretty pointless.  At sensible road speeds    any well set up engine will give plenty of smiles and probably a few butt clenching moments too.

On any engine, cam selection can be used to give a smooth power curve with slightly less power than ultimately possible, or agressive top end with the problem of being caught off cam at the bottom end ot the rev range.  The gearbox / diff ratios and tyre size will play a large part in the drivability of any engine.  If they are selected well, they can make the most of the engines power and torque delivery.

A well sorted suspension set up, decent brakes and tyres will make up for a lack of power through the bends.  Keeping the weight down, especially un-sprung weight.  Reducing some of the aerodynamic drag, with an aeroscreen, will also help in making the most of any power you do have.

Chosing a westy on engine fitment alone would be very short sited IMO.  If you will be looking to upgrade the engine for maximum power in the future, then one of the 16V engines would probably be the way to go from the outset.  Zetec, VX or 4AGE in no particular order.

Not exactly an answer to the question, but I'm biased to the x-flow

[Hammy]

I'd go for the Zetec -  A car with a Zetec will always be worth more than the alternatives and more sellable in the future.

[Jenko]

The other thing to consider is the state of tune on these engines................

Each has thier own merits, but ultimately in standard form the zetec would be the best engine.....

I had a 1.6cvh and loved it, it was totally reliable, very simple  to work on, comparatively light and was quick enough (at least at the start).....I now have a 2 ltr CVH...

If you can afford it, go zetec, but remember, there are other parts of the car that are important, tyres, shocks, suspension set up...All of these should be looked at when buying a westie....

[2L_Pinto_Westfield]

Pinto on 45s!! What a sound  

[oldman]

A bloke walked into a bar in't Kinell and asked for a pinto heavy and the German barman said "zee tec is zee best bitter in't ere".Bitter? Said the bloke