Hi,
I like your thinking for a hotrod Fiesta ST Mk4 ;-) The good thing is this model already had the 2-litre block, and as you say the 2.3 is just a stroked and taller version of this block.
However, when looking up the performance for Mazda SP23, it is listed as only 115kW, so not much gain over the Fiesta ST. I think you would later on punch yourself for not going with a turbocharged version from the start.
Another thing to consider is that a Focus shell as a starting point (rather than Fiesta) would give you more space to work with, and would give you much better road holding, such as the torque steer prevention front hubs from Focus RS that would fit directly onto that body shell.
Burton UK has a few words to say about the Duratec engine tuning:
https://www.burtonpower.com/tuning-g...ing-guide.html
(Pistons and rods are not that strong from factory), but in general positive comments.
You seem to already be aware of all the specs and applications for the Mazda L-engine, but this article gives a good overview:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda_L_engine
Also this article describes the Ecoboost variants and applications:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_EcoBoost_engine
I haven't thought as much about this build idea as you have, but the Ecoboost article brings me to wanting to get hold of an Ecoboost 2.3 from a Mustang, and drop it into a Focus or Fiesta shell. (or alternatively get an ecoboost 2.0 from a Falcon if that cost less).
When it comes to the
ECU/
PCM, it seems the various Ecoboost engines came with a Bosch MED17 system. This could be a difficult system to crack open and tune, but there would be some knowledge built up already with the tuners for the Focus RS and Mustang. Since this is a Ford adapted
ECU it should be possible for other systems to recognise some of the CAN messages, or at worst translate some of the packages. The challenge will be to make it work with DSC and immobiliser functions etc. Perhaps need to transfer several modules from the donor vehicle.
I believe you will need the specific
ECU for the selected engine, and not try to use another
ECU due to the cam timing arrangement etc.
I found an article by a guy that has studied the MED17 for WV applications
http://www.u-obd.com/2018/10/31/repa...h-med17-5-ecu/ (not sure how different this
ECU is from the Ecoboost one).
I have discussed with a local Perth tuner about stand-alone operation of the diesel
PCM found in Territory which is also a Bosch
ECU, and it should in theory be possible. (I haven't dropped off my engine yet to have it done as it will cost $$$).
Another very interesting development lately is the work done in Australia by AGT Engineering:
http://www.agtengineering.com.au/canbus.html
http://agtengineering.com.au/pdf/CAN...ual%20v0.1.pdf
They are describing that Ford and Nissan vehicles are under development. (In addition to their ongoing GM and Subaru standard CAN conversion products).
Perhaps you can discuss with AGT about the Ford / Bosch
ECU, and what they can do / and how far they have come with the Ford R&D work?
Cheers,