Although not a popular swap by any means an L series motor of the 16, 18, or 20(B) variety is possible. These engines are relatively easy to come by and cheap to rebuild. Stock parts are readily available as well as many performance parts. These engines were used in the late 60s through the 70s in cars and trucks. Most notably 510s and pick-up trucks.

You can pick one of these up from one of the many low mileage Japanese motor importers very cheap. This makes it an attractive alternative for some one on a tight budget. The overhead cam design makes it a durable little motor.

Another plus to the L series motors is the availibilty and lower price for transmissions. You can pick up a used Z 5 speed transmission for a lot less than a Roadster 5 speed. Checked the price lately on a roadster 5 speed? Not a cheap prospect by any means.

The only drawback to using an L series motor is the fact that the oil pump hits the cross member which requires a wee bit of modification. Left unmodified the hood hits the valve cover which leads to a less than stock appearance to the car. PLEASE modify the cross member to allow the engine to sit as low as possible in the engine bay. We don't need no funky looking roadsters running around. It is bad enough when people call a stock roadster an MG. No offense to the MG crowd intended.

One of the vendors used to sell a kit to drop an L series motor into a roadster. I am not sure of all that came in the kit but I have heard it provided detailed instructions. This is not a real popular swap but it can be done.

Jimmy Claypool did an L series swap in his roadster. You can read about it by clicking here!

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