was flipping through the local trader and found an ad for a 215 with manual trans for $500...is this a resonable value for one of these? I haven't called yet on it but was just wondering if they go for alot (this seems cheap for a vintage motor and trans)
To me the manual trans set up is almost worth that. The motors themselves aren't a high-demand item but can be a whole lot of fun. In stock form they aren't real big in the horepower arena, but there is enough spped parts to make up for that. I would say if the tranny was included, it would be a buy. If the motor is in good running condition and the tranny is not included, good buy. I would say yes, buy it, I'm jealous. r
These motors are in pretty decent demand for the MG guys. They like to swap them in so they can have some real fun. This is a lightweight (ALUMINUM) V8. Not a whole lot of power in stock form, but you don't really need a whole lot in a small car. Aftermarket is small, but good power can be had from these...My brother has a 215ci from a '61 Olds for sale...complete engine & auto trans for $500. He got alot of interest at the last swap meet, but no buyers yet. I've been considering throwing that motor in a little T or A.
I just sold a 215 complete with tube headers, carb, starter, etc. for $800.00. It had an adapter and 350 trans, but the trans was cooked. I ran that motor in my 37 ford for 10 years. So, hey....if you want it, that isn't a bad price. Stu
Not a bad price for one with the manual trans set up. I bought one with an auto a couple of months back for $100, good running motor to. They're not hard to find and can be had for a decent price...
If you want tuning parts for a 215 then the UK is the place, loads of stuff over here but exchange rate is gonna make it pricey at the moment.
The manual trans stuff is pretty hard to find around here. My Dad purchased an Olds 215 (almost the same thing) and he is quite happy with it. It is light and fits nicley in about anything. He put his in a '29 Model A pickup. It sure looks nice all polished up. I would jump on that. There are some cool performance parts still around for these as well.
They also look like baby nailheads with their near vertical rocker covers... Plenty of performance stuff for them - cams, intakes, etc. Rover is still pumping them out now about 4.2 liters (256cu")
Buick 215's look like baby nailhead's, Olds 215's (and maybe Poncho ones too??) look like baby 394's.
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