Mk1 Zetec conversion project

Bit of an oddity this, but I've got too many projects on so I need to let this one find a new home.

This is a 1991 import, very solid shell that's had a Zetec conversion fitted. It was complete and running but the head blew so the previous owner lost interest and I bought it. It's all there apart from the engine, although the interior is stripped and as with any cheap project car I'm sure you'll find a load of things you want to do / fix / change.

The car itself is generally in good condition, a few marks and scratches but everything you need is there and it is very solid, no rust on the arches or sills and it's never been welded as far as I can see. The hood is nice, and watertight with no damage and a clear rear screen. I've put in 2 seats and have a steering wheel for it, but other than that it's stripped with no dash. The wheels are different to the ones pictured, would come on steels or space savers and the brakes all work fine too.

The zetec conversion is a simple one, but all the work has been done. The car has an MT75 gearbox custom mounted with a custom prop linking it up to the viscous LSD. The engine mounts are included and the exhaust & manifold have been adapted to fit as well. The wiring is mostly Ford, using the original Ford ecu to run the engine but it's been linked into the MX5 speedo. So in theory you just chuck in a 2.0 zetec and drive it!!

If you're questioning why anyone would put a Zetec engine into an MX5, in some ways so do I ... but the numbers add up especially if someone else has done all the hard work.
A standard 2.0 zetec gives about the same power as a 1.8 MX5 engine, but there is a load more torque. It's also a lighter and stronger engine, but it's when you modify it that it really makes sense. Fit TBs and you get 170bhp, a basic head skim and some cams get you 200bhp, and a proper head job gets you to around 220bhp, with no need to change the rods. Being a Ford, there are loads of parts available and they are cheaper to buy ... there are also lots of 2nd hand parts available.

I'm offering the car in 2 options, ideally I sell it complete although I would consider splitting the zetec conversion off the rolling shell.

I paid £450 for the basic car, and have another £200 in the gearbox and other bits I've added.
Edit - £400 takes it.

The zetec kit would be the gearbox and mounts, custom prop, engine mounts, manifold and mid pipe and the ecu and wiring. I'd take the mechanicals out but it would make sense for the buyer to help get the wiring out so they know how it goes.

 

The car is in Hagley, West Midlands and I have the V5.

Russell