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a-spec cars have 130hp in gs models does the jdm k8ze have more power if so how much? Where can i get a good quality one and relatively low shipping preferrably in the u.s./ shipping from canada is expensive. Has anyone ever used any of the gude/bullfrog performance cam,throttle body, ported and polished heads? if you have whats the price and does it make a significant difference? Would it be a better choice to do that or a jdm k8ze and if i do both would i expect any gains off the jdm k8ze with the gude/bullfrog equipment? any insight is of value just no theorems please

Fpr the price of all that, its cheaper to get a ZE.

Indeed and tons more power!

it's harder and more expensive to get a good ze, but would it be worth while to get a jdm k8ze if im looking for cheap power if the jdm k8 makes more power that is?

isnt the k8ze only 10 more hp???

ya about 10hp increase

its cheaper to get a KL-DE, 35 more HP than the stock K8 and a LOT more torque and the swap is just as easy

Custommx3 wrote:Fpr the price of all that, its cheaper to get a ZE.

He wants to get a ZE a K8-ZE! LOL i'm a loser sorry..

well if u dont want a de or ze..ur better off with a kfze.. because 10 hp is not worth the swap.. i know i was told kfze isnt worth it either but bleh im stuck with it. Anything is better than a k8..you canget 10 hp more if u simply get some headers and a good intake i believe?

unless you're putting hi-octane fuel in your k8ze..., your not gonna see an increase anyway......, but if you're determined to get one, i've got a k8ze ecu sitting in my closet you can have for the price of shipping!

stereoking15 wrote:it's harder and more expensive to get a good ze, but would it be worth while to get a jdm k8ze if im looking for cheap power if the jdm k8 makes more power that is?

you are overlooking a gigantic thing here.

taking the engine out, putting it back in...that doesn't mean anything?

Sure a klze might cost 800-900 dollars VS 400-500 for a k8ze but....BFD?

You still need to replace timing belt, vc gasket, thermostat, water pump, plugs, wires, possibly more stuff, and a new clutch if you put in a new engine (or you are a fool if you don't and wait for s--- to break instead). That stuff alone will add another 300-600 to the total price, possibly more.

I really don't see why ANY person in their right mind would purchase a KF or K8 to replace a K8 in their stock mx3. IF you are going through the effort to rip it all out, why not get a superior motor? It gets maybe 2-3 mpg less than a k8, thats the only downside i can see to it. If driven conservatively you can use regular-grade octane fuel, but if driven hard, use premium.

Other than that, it is same in dimensions, is ridiculously easy to install, parts are abundant state-side, IMO the engine itself is VERY inexpensive for being a jdm imported motor. Hell, most honda and nissan motors are well into the 1800 price bracket USD. KLZE's are consistently under 1000 usd shipped! It is also a reliable engine...many people have been using it for 3+ years with no issues. I haven't had a single issue related to my engine ever come up.



If you want a cheap replacement engine that makes DECENT power get a KLDE for 150 bux. There are bazillions of them out there and they still will make a mx3 fly compared tothe stock k8.

Totally agree with Gro...., that lil speech is a must read for anyone considering a swap!

of course you do realize you are free to do as you wish with your mx3...just advice people give.. I mean it IS YOURS...

appreciate all of the feedback and good input i will consider looking into a kl-ze with all considerations. Anyone try anything from gude racing such as the more agressive cams?

Gro's speech just almost inspired me to do the swap. I will in the near future as I have the kl36ecu and millenia manifold. I just need the mazdaspeed motor mounts and klze engine then away I go. I am just putting the swap on hold because My k8 is still going strong at 270,000kms. I have new exhaust, prm intake and msd digital ignition control box so I am good for now till the engine dies, if that ever happens? I drive it hard and it still goes, hoping it will die to give me the final excuse I need to do the swap.
One question. On psituning.ca they are selling headers for $450, Install instructions on website and can be used on 1.8k8 motor or klze. Has anyone bought these or know if they are any good?
later.