Hi Everybody,

I just bought an unfinished RM 8 Lotus 7 replica with a 12A engine. It has a Weber downdraft carburetor but does not run and the engine isn't plumbed for coolant or oil. I'd like to get 150 to 200 hp out of it if its not too hard or expensive. More important than the power output to me is engine reliability.

I'm open to all ideas and info for example: what is the best oil to use? Did the 12A produce 100 hp in stock form?

Does anyone have a 12A within 30 miles of me at 27707? Or how about a rotary Caterham or Locost?

Dan in Durham NC

 

Welcome!! Very cool car you have there!!

Yes the 12A did produce 101hp originally. As far as oil, it's been discussed a lot here. I've used Castrol GTX 20W50 since 1999 with zero issues. I'll include a picture of the oil weight chart from an RX-7 owners manual to help you.

 

Great info! Great forum. Thank you!

 

Another pair of timeless examples!! Did you restore both of the cars?