The Mitsubishi 4G63 engine, a staple in the tuning and performance car world, is renowned for its robustness, versatility, and potential for high horsepower builds. Originally designed as a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and other models in the 1980s and 1990s, the A4G63 has since become a favorite among car enthusiasts, particularly in the aftermarket performance scene. Whether you’re building one for a project car or seeking to boost the performance of your existing vehicle, understanding the costs associated with building an A4G63 engine is critical to budgeting for your project. In this article, we’ll break down the components, labor costs, and additional considerations that contribute to the total cost of having an A4G63 engine built.
Key Factors Affecting the Cost of Building an A4G63 Engine
Before diving into the specific costs, it’s important to understand that the price of building an A4G63 can vary widely based on several key factors:
- Build Type and Performance Goals: Are you building the engine for street use, a daily driver, or for a high-performance racing application? The desired power output will influence the type of parts and modifications you’ll need, with higher-performance builds demanding more expensive components.
- Labor Costs: Professional engine building requires skilled labor, and labor costs can vary depending on location, expertise, and the complexity of the build.
- Quality of Parts: The quality and brand of the parts used in the build significantly impact the overall cost. High-end, race-quality parts will increase the budget, whereas stock or OEM parts will help keep things more affordable.
Breakdown of Costs
Let’s take a closer look at the individual components and services involved in building an A4G63 engine and their estimated costs. Keep in mind that these are average ranges, and the final cost can differ depending on your specific needs.
1. Core Engine Block and Crankshaft
A quality core engine block is essential, and the cost can vary depending on whether you’re buying a new block or reusing a pre-owned one. A used A4G63 block that needs machining could cost anywhere from $300 to $600, while a new or fully rebuilt block might be priced at $800 to $1,500.
The crankshaft is another crucial component for strength, especially if you’re aiming for higher horsepower. A stock crankshaft may cost between $200 and $400, while a forged crankshaft could set you back $600 to $1,200.
2. Pistons and Rods
For an engine that will produce more power, upgrading the pistons and connecting rods is essential. Stock pistons and rods might cost $300 to $500 for a basic set, while forged pistons and rods suitable for high-performance builds will run between $800 and $1,500. The higher price point reflects their ability to withstand the stresses of higher horsepower and boost.
Cylinder Head and Valvetrain
The 4G63 cylinder head can be built to different levels of performance. Stock heads generally cost between $150 to $400, but performance-oriented heads (such as those with CNC porting or upgraded valve seats) can easily climb to $600 to $1,200 or more.
A performance valvetrain with upgraded valves, springs, and retainers for high-revving applications can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000, depending on the brand and specifications.
4. Turbocharger and Boost Components
Since many 4G63 builds are turbocharged, the turbocharger and related components (wastegate, intercooler, piping, and tuning) will play a large role in the final cost. A stock turbo for the A4G63 may be priced from $200 to $500, while a high-performance, upgraded turbo will range from $1,000 to $2,500 or more, depending on brand and performance level.
Additionally, the cost of an intercooler setup, piping, blow-off valve, and associated parts can easily add $500 to $2,000.
5. Fuel System and Tuning
To handle the increased power from a turbocharged or high-compression build, the fuel system will need to be upgraded. This includes high-flow fuel injectors, a larger fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and a custom fuel rail.
Expect to spend between $500 and $1,200 for the fuel system.
Tuning the engine for optimal performance is another cost to consider. Tuning software and a professional dyno tune generally cost between $500 and $1,500.
6. Supporting Parts and Miscellaneous
A variety of additional components are necessary to complete the build, such as:
- Gaskets, seals, and fasteners: $100 to $300
- Oil pump, water pump, and timing components: $200 to $500
- Head studs, bearings, and seals: $200 to $600
- Cooling system upgrades (radiator, hoses, etc.): $300 to $800
7. Labor Costs
Labor is one of the most significant variables in the cost of building an engine. For a complete A4G63 build, labor can range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the complexity of the build, the shop’s hourly rate, and the level of custom work involved. A simple rebuild or refresh will be on the lower end, while a fully built, high-performance engine will push the price higher.
Total Cost Range for a Complete 4G63 Build
Taking all these factors into account, the total cost of building an A4G63 engine can vary widely based on the scope of the build. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Stock rebuild with mild performance upgrades: $3,000 to $6,000
- Mid-level performance build (for street use or mild racing): $6,000 to $12,000
- Full high-performance or race build: $12,000 to $20,000+
For a budget-conscious build, focusing on OEM or low-cost aftermarket parts will keep you closer to the $3,000 to $6,000 range, but if you’re aiming for a high-horsepower monster capable of withstanding aggressive driving or track use, the cost could easily exceed $15,000.
Conclusion
The cost of building an A4G63 engine depends largely on the goals of your build, the parts you choose, and the labor involved. While a basic rebuild may be relatively affordable, a high-performance or race-spec build can become a significant investment. By carefully selecting components that align with your goals and budget, and working with a skilled engine builder, you can ensure that your A4G63 engine will deliver the performance you’re looking for. Always be sure to do plenty of research, compare prices, and consult with professionals to ensure your build is both cost-effective and high-quality.