VN/VP Body Conversion

[azzfox]

Hey all. Im getting pretty keen to start a new project now that Ive been without the VN for a fair while. Now Ive been pondering this thought... VN body on a VP (bumpers mainly). Reason is: VP's may be built better (or so people reckon) but the looks werent so refined. The bumpers are god damn ugly, and those long indicators arent fooling anybody. They dont match anything on the car. Now that Ive got that out, is there anyone whos done this before or knows whats involved? I realise the following:

*Will need VQ guards to be legal (side indicators).
*Bumper clips on VN are separate, VP are fixed to bumper. In my head it should work out.
*Rear number plate light will need to be moved to rear bar, or bog hole and leave as is.
*It will require painting.

This is going to be my new project where time isnt an issue. I will be pulling the motor, trans, diff and anything else that Ive put time and effort into from my VN and putting it into this car.

Or is there really minimal difference between the two mechanically/structurally and that I should just stick to a VN? I already have a "Series 2" motor and a VP steering column/rack setup. Any other differences? Besides extra sound deadener, black interior plastics, seats and exterior trims?

No it wont be a V8.

Thoughts? Without turning it into a VN/VP shit fight.

[TVR-190]

VP IS BETTER LOOKING.

Ahem.

unless you have an IRS vp, i wouldnt bother. find yourself an IRS / ABS exec and then go for it.

[Calaber]

Your post is a bit difficult to follow. It looks like you want to fit VN bumpers to a VP? The body shells are petty much identical, it was only cosmetics that really changed, plus some body strengthening around the B pillar. It also had the optional IRS rear end.

I don't like the VP design details either, but agree with TVR that, if you are going to bother with this project, at least make it worthwhile and find an IRS VP, then go to work. You could come up with a decent car that looks a bit different.

[azzfox]

IM BACK! Yeah Ive been missing the VN like crazy lately, having something to fiddle with and throw money at. I want to get started on something again really soon. I have decided not to keep the VN. Its not worth the money to fix. But Im back on the same idea as when I started this thread. I want to strip the running gear and all the goodies and chuck it all in another body. But! Im really liking the idea of taking a VP and chucking VN bars, grill, headlights and VQ guards on it.

Ive got a bit of cash saved so after I strip the VN and get a VP and pull the running gear out of that too, I want to get the body painted while the engine bays clear. Then get the bits painted a week apart or so apart. Allows me to still work on it and still have cash if something comes up or whatever. To spray the whole car, engine bay, the underside of boot lid and bonnet, Im looking at around 4-5 grand? More? Less? Not after a showcar finish. Just a metallic of my choice really.

Sorry guys it wont be IRS (unless someone can talk me into it). It will be spooled again and I dont like the idea of CV's failing and axles flying around lol. Plus I like live axle. Its simple.

[HT_Monaro]

i have to agree on the live axle (as i like a lil slide) IRS is good for a comfortable ride compared to a live axle and probly better at cornering (without sliding) but in my opinion live axles are more fun. all in all i think just get a vn or a vp shell in good nick and deck it out in all the vp goodness and dress it up in Vn beauty