I currently have an 85' 12a, and want to swap in a 13B. i would like it to be turbo, if possible. ive read alot about it but dont quite understand. i just want to know if there are any restrictions on the specific 13b i can swap in for my 12a, and what mods i will need if any. thanks for any help i can get!

 

Check out the FAQ in the 1st gen section, as well as the archives. Swapping in the turbo 13B is covered in great detail. You'll probably want to swap in the engine from an '86-'92 turbo model. Extensive modification will be required, as laid out in the FAQ.

 

You can use any 13B you can get your hands on, really. Most common is to use a 74-78 REPU and RX-4 engine, 84-85 GSL-SE engine, or an FC engine. If going with the FC, you'll need to swap the front cover so you can use your 12A's front engine mount and you'll need to decide if you want a distributor or ECU to handle your ignition (either the distributor or CAS will fit).

If you're willing to go carb, there's not much to it. If you want to adapt a rotary EFI setup from 84-91, it's a good bit of work. If you go standalone, it's physically easier but with a steep learning curve.