Upgrading to 1275 - is it worth it?

[alex_holden]

I've got a line on a 1275 Midget engine. I haven't seen it yet and the condition is unclear (apparently it was rebuilt 15 years ago and has been stored in a garage ever since). I'm wondering if changing from a 1098 to a 1275 would really make much of a difference in performance, particularly if I don't want to upgrade to a larger bore exhaust.

I don't want/need more top speed but a bit more acceleration for safer overtaking would be nice. My saloon with its recently-rebuilt 1098 (+60 rebore) is already surprisingly nippy and I'm inclined to leave it as it is. My trav's engine has done getting on for 90K miles and is slightly tired but it still keeps up with traffic OK. Before this opportunity came along I'd already collected together nearly a complete set of parts (including rebored block, pistons, reground crank, etc.) to build up a new 1098 engine for the trav. Third possibility is it could end up in my best mate's van which currently has a very tired 1098.

[plastic_orange]

A 1275 in good nick will always be better than a 1098. However, a 1098 in good order will easily outperform a worn 1275 - I've been there.

Pete

[alex_holden]

After chatting to the chap again I've decided to take a chance on the engine. He confirmed it was fully rebuilt 15 years ago and never fitted but can't guarantee it hasn't deteriorated in storage. Unfortunately circumstances mean it will be a few weeks before I can collect it.

[bmcecosse]

Always handy to have a spare ! I've got 2 x 1275 engines on the bench - waiting for my 1098 to expire! One built with MG cam - the other with a 544. I suspect I will try the 544 engine when the time comes - but so far - the 1098 has resisted all efforts to break it!