Read something about this? Has anyone (non-OEM) attempted this conversion?

 

I have heard of a BMW M3 engine Transplant and conversion from east west mount (fwd) to north south mount and RWD

 

Getrag did it a while back. I hope they release one to the aftermarket scene. Mini w/ 40/60 power distribution, anybody?

 

Yes I forgot about the Getrag AWD MCS. If I remember correctly they published testing results on the web. I think that there was even a link somewhere on nam. You may want to search NAM for AWD.

 

Motoring file had a writeup...

 

Yeah, I read the same article a while back (couldn't remember that it was Getrag). I guess my real question is: is there anyone out there doing these conversions (rwd or awd)? Don't have a MC yet, but when I get one, I would looooove to have either a rwd or awd set up (assuming it was under $10k -- which I think is being optimistic, of course HPA does awd conversions on VWs for less than that so, maybe not).

 

You are being quite optimistic. HPA may do AWD conversions for VWs, but there is a larger potential market with VWs.

 

Perhaps if you write/call to Getrag and offer to purchase the Twinster test mule or equipment they'd send it to you? Installation would be a whole other issue...

dan

 

HPA also has it a bit easier as the car's they are converting already have platform mates that use AWD.... mostly its plug and play... with the electronics being the biggest hurdle to overcome...

 

Mostly, perhaps, but I don't think (could be wrong) that the New Beetle is AWD in any market, nor a "plug and play" solution (yes, the drivetrain exists as a VW OEM part, but not for that vehicle).

Thought about contacting Getrag . . . . but doubt they're going to part with it. Ah well.

Where can I read more about the M3 engine / RWD retro-fit?

 

[QUOTE=dhodory;1164897]Mostly, perhaps, but I don't think (could be wrong) that the New Beetle is AWD in any market, nor a "plug and play" solution (yes, the drivetrain exists as a VW OEM part, but not for that vehicle).

the bug doesn't, but the TT does... and that shares the drivetrain as well as part if not all of the floorboard with the bug

 

couldnt VW retro fit the R32 all-wheel system to the new beetle, seeing how the new beetle is on a golf chassie?

 

You mean like the Beetle RSI?? It wouldn't be a direct swap. Don't remember why, but there ARE driveline differences between the MKIV/MKV chassis' and the New Beetle. (Wheelbase maybe??)

 

If anyone is doing a group buy on this AWD MINI stuff, count me in.