ca18 vs ka24 comparision (different)

[dhen]

I know that these two engines have been compared, many, many times, but I searched and I think my question is different. How do the two compare in physical size? Does anyone know how much longer and wider the KA is, or are they about the same?

Thanks

[float_6969]

The KA block is huge compared to the CA. I've had both motors down to bare blocks on separate occasions and they are VERY different. The KA is bigger in every dimension. There is also a noticeable difference in weight. The KA's bare block can't be held with one arm (at least not my arm), while the CA can be.

[dhen]

Thanks. I was just curious thinking about something for the future.

[mdb4879]

I've never measured them, but it seems like the KA is quite a bit larger. Just from memory of various engine bays the KA is long, wider, and taller (not sure by how much though). There's more room under the CA's intake manifold because is doesn't wrap under itself like the KA does and there's more room between the pulleys and the radiator. There might be more room between the exhaust manifold and the strut tower on a KA for lack of a turbo, but that's about it. The only thing that's really larger on a CA is the head I would believe. But overall it's a smaller motor.

[float_6969]

KA head is taller due to the high port design. The extra space on the exhaust side is due to the lack of turbo and the fact that the motor sits more upright. One of the appeals of the CA for me (WAAYYY back when I was trying to decide what motor to go with) was that not only was it the physically smallest motor, but it also leaned in a way that, in my mind anyway, helped to lower the center of gravity slightly.

[dhen]

Funny to hear you say that because it barely fits in my car. It's a long story how I decided on the CA, but I'm very glad I did.

[float_6969]

Yea, you couldn't fit a KA in there, and I'm not sure an SR would go either.

[mdb4879]

You need an E16 adapted for RWD

[dhen]

The SR's block comes down too far, though anything is possible.

The only drawback is that this engine isn't found in a junkyard. Mine seems to be fine, but I like to be prepared.

I had to look up E16. Someone put a rotary in one of these cars, but I'm very happy with my CA.

[boost_boy]

Just buy another one that's built and ready to go and keep it on tap for future use. You really don't have a dilemma at all IMHO...

[mdb4879]

E16's are really small. When I first went from E's to CA's I thought CA's were huge, lol. People think Honda's save small engines, but I think the CA has them beat on that, let alone the E series.

Pulsar NX SE's are far and few between, even in junkyards. If you do happen to come across one the only thing worth snagging is the motor, and that's only if you can get it for dirt cheap. The only reason I ever buy FWD longblocks is to store the rods, crank, and complete head. Everything else is useless, IMO.

[dhen]

I still regret not nabbing a CA18DE I saw in the junkyard a few years ago. Never seen one since.

[themadscientist]

FJ....

[Matej]

Z18ET.

[themadscientist]

That is a damned good-lookin engine!