I'd really rather like an all alloy engine, I heard there was a magnesium VW gearbox, or is this just cup cars or something? Would really like to sort a few facts out so I know what I'm looking for.

Why do you want an aluminium engine and magnesium gearbox ? ..................... is it to play top trumps down the pub or have you a real need ? Not being bitchy just want to know because the two best small block vw engines are cast iron ....G40 and AFH 1.4 16v.

Nah I'm just trying to gather facts really. I don't want a magnesium gearbox, I just heard something about one. And seeing as the back end of a Polo has no weight in it, maybe dumping 60-70 kg or so from the front end (fibreglass body panels as well) would sort the handling out a bit. Probably not though.

When I was looking for Lupos I was told to steer away from the ally engines as they tend to wear out quicker than the cast ones.

can understand the go for cast over alloys, due to the alloy being 'softer' than the cast, is that correct?

can understand the go for cast over alloys, due to the alloy being 'softer' than the cast, is that correct?

Not from my perspective. I'm looking at tuneability and the AFH has far more potentail .......... costs ££££ but the head is way way better long term.

Oh almost forgot ......... aluminium is way cheaper as a raw material than steel and easier to recycle so the motor manufacturers are moving that way