I'm with you Tex for all of the same reasons. With my car being "Improved Production" I can't run a 2 Litre BD anyway as I have to use the Iron block. A YB is of course the obvious choice (Danny) but they are a bit like Bums.........everyone has one!!
"If we are still looking out the SIDE window it's under control" - Roger Clark
Why would a YB be the obvious choice? I bet even Danny wouldn't choose a YB if he built a motor now, but you wouldn't build a new motor if you had his motor! The Duratec is lighter, cheaper initial purchase, newer (therefore no casting issues in head), all alloy (therefore reduced gasket issues), make as much if not more power, spares are easier and only going to get easier. Development in YB is at the end, and Duratec is only just beginning. So why?
It seems the Duratec has alot more potential but does anyone know what hp or bhp the 2.0L Zetec and Duratec make standard for those people that just want a good reliable road car? Or at the most a good induction and management system.
We had a standard Zetec in my car years ago with 45's and it was better on the track than a pinto with 180 odd hp, not to say more power, just more drivable.
I'd be surprised if 200 hp from the standard duratec with a decent induction and exhaust isn't achievable. Having said that - it's probably more than you need for a fast road car.
The Zetec would be cheaper and can use more standard escort parts, like the gearbox, and will make the power you want and probably a little more with more modification.