Got a 79 rx7 didn't pay anything for had it running with in a week but looks like the motor is on its last leg.. so I'm look for good ideas on a new one I would like to be able to take it to the track on the weekends. I was thinking a ls1 or a small block but would love to keep it a rotary. Any thoughts would help thank you

 

Depends on your money. If you have lots of money to spend LS motor will give you the most power. There is no debate there.

BUT if you are budget conscious you can build a ported 13B or 12A, and it would only set you back a few hundred dollars. A nice carb and exhaust and you will be able to toast most folks for less than buying a bare V8 block with no heads or cam.

 

Objectively consider the chassis before you make an choices. Rust sucks and you need a good foundation. Not considering paint, how is the structure of your 7?

 

The body is in perfect shape only one spot of rust and it about the size of a needle on the door

 

Looking to spend between 5000 to 8000 maybe up to 10

 

5k would make an AWSOME rotary powered machine. Auto x is more about suspension and tires than power anyway.

Think if it was me I'd stay rotary. Just my $.02

 

if I go with a ported 13b what would be better Four port or six port?

 

from my understanding the 6 port engines allow for more low/midrange power, if you have the ports fully functional. A four port may make more peak power. So for me If i was dailly driving I would go for a 6 port or a turbo 4 port. The boost makes up for midrange power.

 

Doesn't matter 6 or 4 if you are gonna port it for racing. If I was racing it I'd go with a 6 port engine cause parts are MUCH cheaper. There is some kind of premium with 4 port motors that I haven't figured out why yet.

 

ok thanks for all the help

 

Remember the Gen 1 is a front/mid engine. Not only will the V8 weigh more it's cg will be further forward throwing off the suspension geometry. The car was made for rotary.