Engine & Trans Replacement

GRWUSA

MEMBER
2000 JAGUAR VANDEN PLAS
V8
RWD
AUTOMATIC
158,000 MILES

The trans in my Jag is shot & the engine needs work. Total cost is approx. $7,000. The exterior, interior and suspension is in great shape. I would like to replace the British problematic engine with a rebuild 400 hp V8 American muscle, and a new 5 speed trans. My question is "what engine & trans would you suggest I look at that would fit into and hook up to this Jag, and what do you think the cost of both & install would be?"

2 Replies

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

I've heard of some people putting Chevy 350s in them but you have no idea what it would take to get a working operating system for that

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Monday, January 12th, 2015 AT 2:18 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Engine: GM LS3 6.2L V8

Power: 430-480 HP (depending on configuration).
Reason:
Reliable, lightweight, and highly tunable.
Widely available and well-documented for swaps.
Compact design, making it easier to fit in the Jaguar's engine bay.
Cost: $7,000 for a new crate engine or $3,500-$5,000 for a used/rebuilt engine.
Transmission: Tremec TKO/TKX 5-Speed Manual or GM 6L80 Automatic

Manual Option:
Tremec TKO/TKX 5-speed is robust, can handle the power, and gives you that American muscle car feel.
Automatic Option:
GM 6L80 6-speed auto pairs well with the LS3, offering modern drivability and efficiency.
Cost: $2,500-$3,500 for the transmission.