wbpo said:
If they could only have figured out a way to keep the Italian made Aluminum block when they did the '03 it would have been the perfect car. That's right, the '01's Aluminum block motor is made in the same Italian factory as many of Ferrari’s parts are.
I dont think its that they couldn't figure out a way to put the Aluminum block in the 03, I just think it wasn't financially feasable. I think its that they had too choices, 1) aluminum block with cheap internals 2) iron block with bullitproof internals. Seeing as how the aluminum block is like $4,000 more than the iron block, it wasn't feazable to use bullitproof internals with it due to cost. And by factory warranty and durabillity testing standards, the cheap internals wouldn't cut it. People assume that the aluminum block is not used because its inferior for some reason, but thats not the case, especially if the sleeves are of good quality.
And yes, the illuminum block is cast by Teksid in Italy, who also cast Ferrari's F1 car's aluminum block.
As far as 03 vs. 01. The 03 starts you off with more to work with. You have a T-56 6 speed tranny that can take alot of abuse. Better halfshafts. Rims that can hold bigger tires. And, you get a built block that can easily be taken to 500rwhp and you don't have to worry about engine grenading on you due to weak internal (a bad tune will blow any engine though). And the 03 has decent
suspension stock.
As far as the 01, it weighs less, it has a phenominal light alumium block and costs less. At the same time you have more money to mold it into a better, more built to preference performer. The
suspension is okay, but it can be easily upgraded. I highly recommend that you spend some good time researching an excellant street setup for the
suspension as opposed to slapping on the 03 stuff, because, for one, its not an 03 and has different weight characteristics, and secondly, why pay to get the stock 03 parts that are alright, when for similar pricing, you can get superiour aftermarket parts. The 01 will also be able to get to about 500 rwhp with a good tune with a blower, you just gotta check it often to make sure you're air/fuel is good, compression is holding, plugs are not slackin... etc...and after a while, save up and build the engine up.