It's not that the ka-t was not fun, not the case at all. The process/cost of building a ka-t is not worth the investment of value or time you put into the 2.4 truck motor when compared to similar markets in my opinion.
No matter how you look at it the SR20DET is the new B-series as well the Ls1 swap is the new K-series.
You have your loyalist to a certain motor or style but in all reality technology continues to advance and there are so many ways to make the power you desire with the power band you want by spending a little more on a motor designed to perform the way you want it to factory.
Where does the ka sit?..... Somewhere around the d-series motor.....
It's not that it can't be done, it's not something new either, it's that most people realize they will have to put more time, money, and heartache compare to purchasing a better designed motorset.
Granted you can boost a ka24de or d-series motor for cheap, using cheap eBay kits, which last in some cases and pop on the first run in others.
For those people just remember you get what you pay for.....
SR20's comparable to B series as the enthusiast market is flooded with parts as well as tech write-ups and downloadable DIY information. Not to mention both motors can willingly rev higher rpm's then their rivals. One huge plus for those seeking higher horse power or different powerbands compared to stock.
Upgrading to the Ls1 or K-series will cost money, similar to when B-series swaps were first introduced into the US market. At the same time more enthusiast are realizing the power, potential, and simplicity of reaching their goals when upgrading to either motor.
The issue is 100% opinion based!
You may want a stock SR swap and AC for your daily.
You may want a B-series turbo and AC for your daily.
You may desire twice the horse power of either stock swap, if so you may end up paying close to $7500 in aftermarket parts to reach your goal and that does not include building the motor internally.
Some who have been "in the game" sort a-speak and have spent time, effort, and their annual income building and maintain their cars have realize the cost effectiveness of purchasing a well-built/better performing stock motor from start.
If you plan on adding highly esteemed upgrades to your B-series or SR swap you will more than likely end up paying nearly the same amount for a stock K-series or Ls1 into your import.
It's all about preference and availability of funds.
TO EACH HIS OWN... whatever you so desire I wish you the best.
Remember
If its Cheap and fast it's not reliable
If its Fast and reliable it's not cheap
If its Reliable and cheap it's not fast
- D.P.
