Im considering getting a sentra for a (cheap) first car. This means B12/B13. There are therefore 2 swaps (yes, I have some skill, can and will learn, and access to people with more skills).

Theres is the CA18DE (Pulsar or JDM) into the B12 and the SR20DE (Se-R or JDM) into the B13. My question is which do you guys prefer (though I think most of you are SR fans, so thats probably not the best question).

Heres what Ive got so farCA18DE: Pros: Cheaper chassis and engine, stouter tranny, more tranny options. Cons: smaller, older, heavier.

SR20DE: Pros: More aftermarket support, more power, still in production, bigger, lighter, more modern, less miles. Cons: more expensive, not the best tranny (especially if boost is in its future).

Ive heard the CA is a better engine than it looks, but theres not a lot out their on it or the swap. Especially in FWD non turbo form.

For the SR guys I have a second question. Save up the extra and buy a (rare) SE-R B13 or just get a cheap (possibly blown) B13 and swap in a Highport used motor?

CA motors are definately a good option. But like you mentioned they are older and alot less aftermarket support. I would opt for a b13 se-r and drop in a jdm motor. SR20's are really cheap right now, people better start taking advantage. They will start becoming rare and with the demand, prices will go back up.

Get an SE-R and swap it if it's rough (or even just get a shell and swap), that's the cheap/quick way to a cheap/quick/relatively reliable car.

You guys have mentioned getting a blown SE-R and swapping in a JDM (which ive seen online for like 400-500 JDM) but why not an non SE-R? I know there are advantages too the SE-R other than the motor and LSD (which is the real one) but what are they.

And where would u find a blown/bad SE-R? I know craigslist, ebay and autotrader...but even then they are rare.

Ive only seen 1 ever that fit that description, about a year ago, it had a leaky tranny and was for sale for 1k. If only I had the money (reasons it sux to be in HS, and w/ parents who dont pay for it).

Search for a couple posts about whats needed to swap a base b13 into a se-r. Trust me, your better off buying the se-r.

Do whichever you like best. You ever think of doing an SR20 in the B12? Thats what Im working on now. SR powered B12s are badass, very fun. I know of several.

**edit** This is JustinVero, I accidentally posted on my girl's SN.
Modified by Stephanie at 3:55 AM 9/20/2005

SR20VE > *