Best Cars for Engine Swaps: Top Platforms for LS, 2JZ, and More
The best chassis for engine swaps. Cars that make swapping easy and rewarding.
Engine swaps transform ordinary cars into extraordinary machines. The right donor car makes all the difference - you need room in the engine bay, strong aftermarket support, and a chassis worth building on.\n\nThis guide covers the best platforms for engine swaps, from budget-friendly to ambitious builds.
What Makes a Great Swap Candidate?\n\n- Spacious engine bay\n- Available swap kits and documentation\n- Strong community knowledge\n- Chassis worth the investment\n- Legal considerations (smog, titling)\n\n### Top Picks\n\n1. Mazda MX-5 Miata - $3,000-$15,000\n\nThe most popular swap platform. LS swaps are well-documented with complete kits available. K-series and Ecotec also popular.\n\n2. Nissan 240SX - $8,000-$15,000\n\nBorn for SR20DET and RB swaps. Huge bay fits almost anything. The drift tax is worth it for swap potential.\n\n3. BMW E30 - $5,000-$20,000\n\nM50, M52, S50, S52 - the later inline-6 engines drop right in. Even LS and 2JZ swaps are well-documented.\n\n4. Datsun 240Z/280Z - $15,000-$40,000\n\nClassic styling deserves modern power. RB26, 2JZ, and LS swaps turn heads everywhere.\n\n5. Volvo 240 - $2,000-$8,000\n\nThe brick takes abuse. Popular swaps include Chevy small-block, Ford 5.0, and turbo Volvo redblock builds.
The List
Final Thoughts
A successful engine swap requires planning, patience, and the right platform. Start with a car that has proven swap documentation unless you want to pioneer new territory.
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