Unitary body

[redbaron]

I would like to fit a rear wheel drive engine to a front wheel drive unitary bodied carto get the engine to fit will also take modifications to the front support system is it possible to do or will I have to fit car to a chassis

[Leon]

Good afternoon,

To convert a vehicle from front to rear drive does not require that you convert the vehicle to a separate chassis vehicle.

Although you would be needing to carry out a lot of body modification to achieve what you intend.

I would start working with a 1D category certifier, and put together a plan, before you start any modifications. It might save you a huge amount of remedial work.

Also, your choice of vehicle will be quite important, as the newer the vehicle, the more requirements there are in terms of frontal impact, crumple zones, and interior airbags. The older the vehicle, the more modification you are likely to be able to carry out is the general rule of thumb.

vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/virms/in-service-wof-and-cof/general/vehicle-structure/structure-incl2.-frontal-impact
This link in the VIRM contains information about frontal impact requirements.

Our certifier list can be found online at
www.lvvta.org.nz/contact.html#certifier