300-6, different head, maybe cross flow, different pistons and about 14.5:1 compression, HEU injectors firing diesel fuel into it, with a similar hydraulically actuated valve system allowing unlimited variable valve timing and lift, along with compression braking. A dual turbo system producing about 65psi of boost, able to deliver over 400hp and 1100lb/tq. Hook this up to an overdrive automatic with a locking torque converter able to lock in every gear, about a 3.00 rear drive ratio, in a 2wd fairly light truck, maybe about halfway between the F-150 and Ranger. Depending on fuel system tuning and driving habits, this should be more than capable of towing as much as a stock F-250 diesel, while returning 50+mpg empty.

 

I would take the 300L6 and do the following:

Increase stroke to 4.125"

DOHC 4 valves / cylinder

Sequential Multi-Port FI

10:1 compression

Turbocharged

This should net an easy 300hp and get decent mileage

 

That ceramic engine thing sounds neat, but I can't help but think it is either a hoax or a very far-fetched idea. I can't see how friction would not be a problem. I don't care how smooth two pieces of material are, rubbing them together at 5000 rpm with a load on them will cause them to heat up and fail. There would have to be some kind of an oil film or something to act as a barrier between all the moving parts.[/QUOTE]

Apparently, thats the neat thing about certain ceramics. They dont absorb heat, or transfer heat. Thats how they are able to turn such a high percentage of the fuel (heat) into motion. I remember learning about ceramic engines 25 years ago when i was in college. I understand that some ceramic parts are beginning to be used in gas turbine applications.