Converting My 2001 Bugeye Gx To Turbo Spec

[subprime]

Hi all

I have a really nice condition GX bugeye which is completely standard. I also have a uk spec 1997 classic turbo which is starting to show it's age, bodywise and interior/plastics etc. The classic's mechanics are spot on; it has a load of extras such as fmic, HKS boost controls, turbo-timer, prodrive wheels, strut brace etc etc. The body is showing some rusty spots around the rear window and it's had a poor respray on the front bumper at some point. To make it really nice I would have to completely replace the seats and cards, dash, consoles, heater controls, front and rear bumpers and completely respray it.

Instead, I'm interested in transferring as many of the old mechanical bits over to the GX as possible; what bits will fit? What problems can I anticipate with the electrics?

Thanks!

Edited February 28, 2010 by subprime

[myles]

People with more knowledge than me will be along, but my two penneth will be that it is too much of an undertaking, and too expensive to be viable.

[stum450n]

1. Wiring Loom isn't compatible neither is the ECU which would need customising

2. Entire engine, gearbox, suspension, brakes, diffs, driveshaft would need transferring (if they fitted that is!)

3. It's illegal (feel free to check that one)

4. IF and I mean IF an insurance company even thought about insuring you, it would cost thousands more than insuring an STi and you can forget comparison sites, there won't be enough quotes to worry about comparing them!

5. You won't be able to sell either of them when the time comes

6. Why even bother, it'll be cheaper to get the classic back otr

7. When restored, the classic will be cheaper to insure

8. After all the work, it would still have running issues yet would've cost more than just going out and buying a bugeye WRX or STi in the first place!!!

9. If it where possible, EVERYONE would've done it!

Despite all that, if you really where still keen to do it, it is technically possible to do with two scoobs of the same age BUT, you've got a classic and a bugeye.

My advice? Sell them both and get a turbo model... I have a GX as well so don't take this as another turbo scoob owner just telling you to upgrade, we've all thought about it at some stage!

[fmj]

It's not illegal as long as you update the dvla with the new numbers, capacity etc... But you would also have to tell your insurance company and as has been said above, your premiums will be far higher then an orginal STI and for this reason nobody will ever buy it from you later. I know NA classics have been converted before but its a lot of work and the far easier and cheaper option all around is to buy the car you want in the first place. Lots of people ask about doing this but not many follow it through.

My plan would be restore the classic.

New door cards and nice later model seats can be brought fairly cheap on sites like japperformanceparts.com. Get the dash replaced or flocked.

Edited February 28, 2010 by FMJ

[stum450n]

It's not illegal as long as you update the dvla with the new numbers, capacity etc... But you would also have to tell your insurance company and as has been said above, your premiums will be far higher then an orginal STI and for this reason nobody will ever buy it from you later. I know NA classics have been converted before but its a lot of work and the far easier and cheaper option all around is to buy the car you want in the first place. Lots of people ask about doing this but not many follow it through.

My plan would be restore the classic.

New door cards and nice later model seats can be brought fairly cheap on sites like japperformanceparts.com. Get the dash replaced or flocked.

Not any more mate I'm afraid. New legislation was brought in by DVLA (August 3rd 2009).

Even like for like engine transplants need:

• Receipt of purchase from a garage on headed paper confirming engine number, capacity and fuel type

• Written evidence on headed paper from the garage who carried out the work.

• An inspection report from a body such as the AA, RAC or qualified assessor.

• An separate inspection report for insurance purposes

• Written confirmation from the manufacturer confirming engine number and size

If you fancy a read:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/Buyin...cle/DG_10014199

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/Ownin...cate/DG_4022054

[BalliSTIc]

My advice? Sell them both and get a turbo model...

Your enthusiasm and loyalty to your car is admirable... but I'd be concerned the hassle would sicken you in the end and spoil it anyway.

[MarkJHarris]

I'm sorry if this sounds harsh or uncaring, but I've been there, many years ago....

Just remember the classics and Newage models look like the same car, are both called impreza but that's about all they share in common. Would you swap a mk3 Escort and mk5 about? Total nightmare.

I've done lots of messing like this in my youth and roll my eyes at the waste of money I've spent over the years.

Never forget, atrophy. All cars turn back into rubber, iron oxide, aluminium oxide, silicon and carbon in the end. Patching up a dog is pi55ing into wind and selling both your cars for a tidy blobby WRX will give you all you need and save a mountain of heartache.

Sad but true- the anti corrosion efforts Subaru use are top knotch. If it's rusting, it's a gonner- get shot asap !

[subprime]

Thanks for the advice everyone.