The iconic Time Machine from the Back to the Future saga is readily recognizable all over the world. Many fans hold it for a great sports car, but those who know better agree that it was overpriced, underpowered, poorly handling, and a pain to maintain. The engine swap project seen here addresses at least one of these issues.
The owner, John Thompson, decided to throw away the original rear-mounted V6 rated at a measly 132 PS (130 hp / 97 kW) and use a real engine in its stead. The choice fell on the legendary Honda K24 four-banger, which he amended with a turbocharger and tuned to accept both pump gas and E85. With ethanol in the tank, the output now reaches a solid 456 PS (450 hp / 336 kW). Normal gas is not too bad, either, at 405 PS (400 hp / 299 kW).
Further mods included new coilovers and polyurethane bushings, as well as custom mounts for the engine and transmission. The latter is a six-speed MT that comes from a Porsche 911 and sends the torque to the rear wheels.
The interior was largely left alone, retaining even the stock AC and the trim. Judging by the video posted by HondaPro Jason on YouTube, the car is loads of fun to drive now – even if it does feel sketchy at higher accelerations.