Capri modification / engine swap options

Hi all, about to secure another Mk 1 Capri
Another Original 1600 auto deluxe
Thinking of some mods what does everybody think
Option 1. Convert to manual, retain Kent 1600 with a very mild tweak(weber, cam etc). Original engine rebuild not currently required.

Option 2. Go down the zetec or similar engine/ type 9 box path

Option 3. Essex V6, yer I know heavy, expensive to rebuild etc but a V6 GT replica would be nice.

Option 4. 2 litre escort

I assume somebody will say V8, but pretty sure not legal anymore (don't know how these "perana" rally cars are getting rego.

I have a realistic budget of $5 to $7 k for driveline mods, and will be undertaking all work myself ( when I get time). Rest of car doesn't require any restoration work.

Not after a race car, just a nice cruiser. Wouldn't mind going down the later engine swap or V6 path as I also have a nice original car which I don't want to mess up.

Cheers all

Agree. I think Pinto's go well in a Capri. Zetec would be even better......
 

Go the Pinto path, dead easy, still reasonably period, more oomph in standard trim, readily available and cheap parts, no rego hassles.
Anything else gets more complex technically, legally, and costly.

Certainly Durtec would be the modern option.  No idea about gearbox fitment options, but there are probably kits around in UK.
A former club member did the Zetec path around 5yrs ago, along with brake upgrades and fuel injection retained.  Nice job but I have no idea of cost or difficulties.

Hi all, thanks for the advice
Picked up Car yesterday
First things first. Going to need some manual gearbox conversion parts.
Has anybody got a clutch pedal, and manual brake pedal they wont to sell me, and a pedal pivot pin to suit.
If so, please PM me with cost.
Cheers