Swapping Out from a CX to VX?

[Davo53209]

I currently own a 98 Honda Civic CX automatic, which was given to me by a generous relative. Lately, I've been tossing around the idea of replacing the stock engine & transmission for a complete VX drivetrain. My question to everyone, is to ask if whether or not, this can be accomplished, along with the approximate labor charge. Naturally, I would take this to a garage to have it done, provided that it'spossible.

Thank You.

[civic lover]

For the least amount of work/money you would want to go with a HX swap. The reason is because you have OBDII car and the VX is OBDI. If you want to keep the automatic transmission you would have to go with the HX, because the VX didn't come with an automatic transmission.

[Davo53209]

Actually, I had it in mind to get rid of the automatic transmission & to replace everything with a VX engine & transmission. I'm also aware that a clutch & shifter would need to be added; but considering that I was given the car, free of charge(i.e. worth about $4000) I figured that by any expense, I might still be ahead.

Thanks.

[cems70]

Not worth the swap. Assuming over 100,000 miles you can average 40 mpg with the car as is (w/ minimal modifications...increase tire pressure, grille block, hypermile driving techniques), it would cost you $10,000 of gas at $4 per gallon. With a VX swap, IF you can average 60 mpg (big "if" since this car is heavier than a VX hatchback, and I don't see any VXers on here averaging 60 mpg), then you'll spend $6,667 at $4 per gallon. Your savings will be $3,333. How much do you think a swap will cost with parts and labor? I think you'll spend at least $1,000 in parts alone.

I think you're better off driving this car as is, selling it and putting the $$ towards a high mileage/good body VX if you can find one, or better yet, a '96 - '99 HX.

[Davo53209]

Thanks for the direct feedback. The truth of the matter is that I had no idea what it would cost for parts & labor. Prior to this point, I was trying to determine if whether or not it was possilbe, or even practical from a price point of view, both being of equal importance. If anything, I would have to agree with everything that was said, and take the car for what it is. After all, I did get it for free.