Anybody looking for an alternative to the Rover V8 may be interested in a conversion project I have developed. I have been using the LS based 4.8L GM V8 to replace the 4.0 / 4.6 with very positive results.
the complete 4800 conversion starts at $9500, ready to drive. The ZF HP22 and 24 both handle the additional power just fine. I have been driving a converted 2000 D2 for about 9000 miles and it has performed very well.
I have been been getting 1-2 MPG better than what my 4.0 would give me in similar driving conditions..
Just to be a dick-head here, but why would I spend 9500.00 (starting) for a "bit" more torque and 1-2 mpg improvement?
Small increase in reliability = 9500.00? Not in my book.
If you are faced with an engine replacement situation, buying a reman long block is going to run you about $7000, and by the time you add installation and incidentals you are right there at around $9000 anyway. This is just an alternate option, obviously not for everyone. I do believe it is more than a small increase in reliability.
Your banking on a lot of people in your general vicinity having blown engines, beyond repair. Otherwise I'm looking at another 2-3K (more than that, if they have to flat-bed it) just to have it trucked out and back.
You going to buy an airline ticket to honor your warranty when my conversion goes tits-up?