Paul Vargyas' 2nd V-8 Formula
If you would have asked me 3 years ago if I ever plan to install a V8 in a Fiero, I would have said...NO, absolutey not! Well, like a LOT of people on the list, I got involved in the "how can I go faster" discussions. Since I live about 30 miles from V8 Archie, I have had the opportunity to see his work at a spring club meeting held at his shop. Nuff said, the time was right. I had just found a Red 5-speed Formula with Sunroof, pw, pdl, cruise (sort of hard to find with this orig equip). Good driver, etc. Decided that was going to be the car. I decided that it would take me a long time to do this project, so I had all the brakes redone with new rotors and calipers and took the car to Archie's and told him I wanted a new crate 350, TPI fuel injection with LT-1 injectors, and his "master installation kit". I also bought poly rear suspension bushings, and new Monroe SensaTrac struts and asked him to install these items since the cradle would be out.
What a ride! This is a fast car. I have ridden in hopped up V6's, 3.1 upgrades and even a 3800 Supercharged 5-speed 86GT. I have owned Corvettes (some years ago) and currently have a 98 Grand Prix GTP, but all I can say is: #1 There is no sound like a 350 V8 (twin cats and resonator tips), #2 there is no substitute for cubes. Since I am still breaking in the Centerforce clutch and new engine, I have not completed any performance tests. Archie feels we are getting about 260-270 hp from this setup. (no cam or headers).
Seat of the pants says there are not a lot of cars that will keep up with this car. Engine looks great in the bay, no noticeable weight transfer (battery went up front UNDER the spare tire).Everything works, including the factory a/c.
Is it cheap? NO
Was it done right, on time? YES
Was it worth it to me to have Archie do it? YES.
Can you cut corners yourself? YES (used engine, no 4-core radiator, cheap clutch, no TPI, etc)
How long if you do it yourself? Too long!
Was it worth it? YES.
If you have been thinking about a engine conversion for awhile, my suggestion is: go for it, life is short, enjoy it.