How about a 27 something litre V12 aircraft engine in a 55 chev. And people say I'm crazy

http://www.rodshop.com.au/project55.htm

It would have to be one of the craziest conversions I have ever seen.

that is cool, doesn't leave much room for a driver, i bet it sounds great.

didn't find the power output figures, or the weight of the thing.

here's a merlin powered boat:

Here's an extract from "The Encyclopedia of Classic Cars" by Bob de la Rive Box

"In 1901, Fiat cars acquired steering wheels and had bench seats placed one behind the other. The first tracing cars, such as the S76 also appeared early on, in 1911."

wait for it......

"This was powered by a 28,353cc (yes, more than 28 litres) four cylinder engine that produced 290 hp at 1,900rpm."


[Edited on 16-10-2002 by Tnate]

absolutely awesome paint job too



It will win so many shows.

That shop makes some cool stuff too, including adaptor bellhousings and flywheels for VW's

That Rolls Royce Merlin-powered boat was at the Motor Club Show at the Homebush Showground this year. It has a new hull now, but the mechanicals are still the same. The engine came from a Mosquito fighter, but unfortunately the aircraft supercharger has been removed. Still over 1000 horsepower though.

The Guinness Book of Records used to list a custom-made car in the UK that had a Merlin engine from a Lancaster bomber (rather than a Spitfire) fitted. It was called 'The Beast'. Apparently it could do 200 mph with ease, turning at less than 3000 rpm. Unfortunately the current edition, and the website, don't mention it.

Rod's '55 is a ripper, he was working on it last time I visited his workshop. His museum is great value for anyone interested in period rods. (I think it was $1, perhaps $2?). He just on the outskirts of Castlemaine.:thumb