I decided to join this site to learn more about choosing a good turbo for my setup.

I have a Nissan CA18DET engine in an old MGA, which was a 2-seat British roadster made in the early '60s. The car is already very fast, but one day I would like to increase the power...

My logic is that the engine management system is already very old, so when I replace it I might as well get a bigger turbo since I'll have to tune it anyways.

Like everyone, money is very important, but I also don't want to cut corners. I've been reading about Holset turbos. Is there one that people use a lot with 1.8 engines? The HX35 is very common, but that might be too laggy. I'm looking for something that would get me into 18-20 PSI of boost, though, so I may have to live with lag.

Any ideas would be welcome.

Thanks

 

Welcome! Got any pictures of the swap?

An HX35 looks like it would be workable for your build; it would have you in the peak compressor efficiency zone at about 6000 RPM.

 

Thanks for the input.

6,000 RPM is pretty high, but this engine officially red lines at 7,200 but will take 8,000.

Any idea how much boost I could expect at 6,000?

HX30s are harder to find, but out there. Do you know if there would there be an appreciable difference between that and a T28?

Thanks

Here is a picture as requested.

 

I'd expect a HX35 could give you all the boost you could want at 6,000 RPM.

An HX30 would probably be a bit too small for your plans. Don't bother looking for one.

 

welcome orava....

 

Wicked car!

Older, light weight car + newer more powerful engine = a lot of fun and surprised onlookers. Fact. lol

 

Hi orava welcome to the forum....

 

Welcome

 

I've been away for a while, so sorry for the late response.


You nailed it.

I especially like it when someone in some big SUV starts to pull in front of me because they're certain that I'm slow. I just downshift to get into boost and they're in my rear view mirror...