Complete newbie wondering about converting an NA Automatic
 

Just saying this now, don't reply to this solely to hate. because we all know you at one point had no clue about anything either.

But anyway, I was just generally wondering about converting a first gen Miata to a V8 engine out of a corvette or camaro or something of that sort. I don't currently own a Miata but I am looking hard to buy one with an automatic transmission. Yes, I have seen all of the "why bother buying a slushbox miata it isnt even fun" comments on every Miata forum ever. But its my preference. I was wondering if i need to buy an engine that comes from an AT car or if i can install an engine from an MT car into an AT Miata. Also, I was wondering how much this would cost. And if an engine from one of these cars is over, say $5k, would there be any cheaper V8 alternatives? Also how much would fuel economy suffer from a stronger engine? And lastly I was wondering if any regular mechanics would be able to do the complete conversion or if i need to go to a specialty shop of some sort.

I'm sorry if my questions are confusing, I truly have next to nothing in terms of mechanical experience and would greatly appreciate any help at all :)

If you are not planning on doing the swap yourself, it will be a whole lot cheaper for you to find a car that has already been converted. There are not many V8 automatic Miatas out there, but I am sure that one will turn up .

Wow sounds like you have been kicked under the bus on forums before! No worries about that here.

Yep there are a few autos out there and plenty of folks that prefer them so you are not committing a capital crime in that desire at all. What is concerning in your comments is the experience level you have. When it comes to doing a swap it's not rocket science but it is a really big rocket. I can't imagine jumping into one with no previous tinkering experience.

I think you'll find most folks around here got their first car and it was the tool that taught them how to change oil and do the basics to keep a car on the road. From there they started fixing things that were wrong or modifying things to make the car perform better. Each project builds on itself and in short order there is enough experience to at least know if an engine swap is possible for them.

But the thing is guys that go that route didn't just wake up one day with an interest in messing with cars. Most guys were taking things apart long before they could drive and the motor head in them is in the DNA. So let me ask you this. Are you a mechanical minded sort of person that enjoys taking things apart? Do you have anyone in your life that tinkers with cars at all that could help you get started?

I think you are on the right track. Find that auto Miata and let it be your tool to learn. But do take someone with you to check out the car that knows cars or have it checked by a good shop before you buy it. Oh and welcome to the forum!

It sounds as though you may be thinking of adapting a Miata auto transmission to the V8? That's not a likely path to success. Could be done? Most things can with the proper application of time and money. But both would be wasted IMO.

As for cheaper V8's, I posted a link about some low mileage GM 4.8L V8s with some accessories and some had ecu's for $400. pretty cheap... deals can be found.

As for cost to have it done for you....unless you have a friend with a work area and cool set of tools, it's going to be well beyond finding one already built.

Elvis, read every thread in the forum. You will be surprised what you will learn. Post your location in your profile so we can find you someone in your area willing to let you come by and see their car. Seeing what work goes into these first hand explains a lot more than what you can read. Get over the idea of the $5g swap. Yes it can and has been done but only by folks that have the tools and experience to fabricate STRUCTURAL metalcraft. Booger-welds will break! Lastly, get a Miata and learn all you can by doing your own work on it. Join a local club and help others work on their cars... learn from their mistakes. When you have some money saved and some scars on your knuckles, tackle your swap!

"...the first rule of swap club, ....." :dancinggreddy2: :biggthumpup:

Elvis has left the building....

Doubtful, as I can see him right now juggling dwarves in my backyard.
Naked.

People that fat should always wear clothes.....