I am considering buying a 1999 renault clio that needs a new engine. However the engine that is currently in the car is a 1.4 litre but being 17 i wouldn't be able to get affordable insurence on this car so i was wondering if it is possible to replace this with a smaller 1.1 litre engine and if so would i need any extra parts or would i simply be able to just swap the engines.

Adam_P, January 2010

The car is being bought off a friend and is only costing me £100 as the engine is seized and needs a new one fittng anyway, it is in very good condition and my dad could fit the engine for me so i wouldn't have to pay for that. i have seen 1.1 engines on ebay for around £200 which are stated to be running. the car has been quoted £150 by a scrap yard so i feel it is worth buying. my main enquiery is if it is as simple as just taking an engine out and putting a smaller one in.

Adam_P, January 2010

You would be looking at a big job!!! new wiring looms, new ECU, exhaust, radiator plumbing and possibly gearbox, and then you would have to get a certified engineers report for the insurance company that the engine is now smaller and that the conversion had been carried out correctly, all a very expensive undertaking, better off looking for a car with the smaller engine fitted by the manufacturer

nigel, January 2010

Unless you can change the engine yourself, or can get it done free of charge, it isn't worth it.
You will have to source a second hand engine, which you probably wont be able to test or hear running until you've gone to the expense of buying/shipping/fitting it, and it could be a wreck too. Even if it comes with a warranty (which will be more expensive) do you really want that much messing around? You will also have to get the cars paperwork all changed.
How much are you planning to spend buying car?
A quick look on the Autotrader website shows a lot of cars around the same age, 60k/80k miles, long MOT etc for £400-£600, even less if you dont mind tatty bodywork, scratches etc.

P.S., When you are getting insurance quotes, try putting your Mum down as a second driver.
This will usually reduce the premium and, as you are the main driver, you are still racking up your own no-claims discount for next year!
(Also means your Mum can drive your car, which is handy but means you'll have to keep it tidy and hide the evidence, you know what I mean!)

g.k., January 2010