Mid Engine V8 Geo Metro Proves Welders Are Underappreciated
What if GM had made their own answer to the Ford Shogun? It would probably look like this creation dubbed the ‘Geo Metro SS.’
Back in the 80’s Ford stuffed a big engine into a subcompact and called it the Shogun. It used the SHO’s V6, was placed in the back, powered the rear wheels, and instantly a legend was born. Only seven were made though, so it wasn’t like it was taking the place of the Mustang. GM never had an official rebuttal to this car, but if they did, it would be this “Geo Metro SS.”
Big engine, midship placement, rear wheels driven. It follows the same principals of the Shogun, and we’d presume would be just as much fun to drive. This one is for sale via Facebook, and we couldn’t help but notice the builder used LS4 power. Let’s take into account the LS4’s output numbers, and then the Geo’s original wheezy engine. Add the numbers up and this Metro now has six times the horsepower it originally had (if it had the 1.0 liter engine). But before we go power crazy, let’s look at this build.
Motor1‘s report on this car notes that the builder’s main focus was on the powertrain. The engine is from a 2006… something. No description of the donor car was given. But some nice things were done to the engine prior to install. DOD was removed, a truck intake was put on, and the water pump is now electric. The brakes did receive some attention. With a proportioning valve.
The starter was moved to a location near the oil pan. And it’s all in plain view. Firewall? Pfft, who needs it? Gauges are via the Torque Pro app, which is bluetooth connected to the OBD port of the engine. If it works, it works. Also connected to the engine is a Cadillac 4T80-E transmission, an upgrade from the original 4T65. An E Trans Control Inc manumatic controller gives at least some driver control over the gearbox.
You’re probably wondering how it is to drive. Well, the seller describes that the car “starts getting excessive oversteer above 65mph.” Also, “it starts to take concentration to keep it in its lane…” Honestly, that sounds like an awful lot of fun to us! With LS4 power it likely gets there pretty quick, too.
Now, it may not be as much fun as some of the blown LS rides we see on the strip, and having only 300 horsepower makes it one of the lower powered cars we’ve featured. But you have to admit, you’d give it a try. Want to hear what it sounds like? Well a little test video is below.
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