I know that this engine was fitted into locally built SA Land Rovers (90's, not 110's I think) but I'm wondering what the point is of this conversion?
The general opinion on the M52B28 with those who have owned and driven Land Rovers with them fitted -either SA imports or conversions- is that they're an excellent fitment in a Defender, some even go as far to say the best engine ever fitted in them out of the factory.
Very drivable, and go very well. A good mate once compared a 110 back to back with his tweaked 3.9 V8 one and couldn't say enough good about it.
Another who owned a 90 with one fitted can only really sum it up with 'I should never have sold it'.
I've done Rover V8's, not bad engines but finding one that isn't knackered for sensible money is getting difficult, whilst the design still retains its inherent weaknesses of timing chain stretch and cam lobe wear.
I've also done Tdi's, which again aren't bad engines, but good ones are also getting pricey, and after 7 years of the Mazda SL35 four cylinder diesels aren't that appealing anymore.
I'm hoping the M52 will be in and running for less than £300 -including buying the thing- which is a minimum I could spend on a Tdi or V8.
I'm maybe a little blinkered, but for the money spent (even if it goes up a little) it's a good option for a well thought of modern petrol engine.
Apologies if this is not in agreement with your thoughts.
It would be rather dull if we all thought the same way, and a bit of debate on the subject is always fun.