Yes, if you just want the occasional drag race NOS would do it but the metering is critical. You might consider an engine change, the Rover V8 is very light being all aluminium and theres plenty of space under your bonnet
I think you'd definitely need an engine change. Why not go down the hionda type-r route? a four cylinder would suit the "character" of the car more than a v8 i would think. t's not gonna be cheap though and begs the question, why not change the whole car?
Lets be realistic, in its day this was a good output for 2 litres, even the Honda type R is only 200hp now. Maybe the v8 is a bit radical but its usually easier to convert to RWD than adapt another FWD motor. Have a look at the Volvo engine in the Focus ST that might be easier but these days turbos are the way to big HP. Whatever way you go its not cheap
cheers for the answers guys, the redtop engine which iv currently got have only done 40,000 miles, so i dont really want 2 do a engine conversion, are their any chip i cud get witch will give me at least 20 bhp? i cant afford a new car neither ......
If you did manage to get 220hp you would have to consider also upgrading transmission components like driveshafts, LSD or ATB diff etc. Suspension and brakes would also need upgrading if the power was to be used fully.
I would suggest fitting a Cossie engine. Mounts would be similar and standard parts would be freely available as the cossie engine was fitted to an escort like yours.
Find a scrap cossie engine with g/box, driveshafts,diff and loom and you will have a reliable 220bhp as standard with loads of scope for more
your car has 150bhp standard and thats when new this would drop as the car is over 13 years old.i take it you have exhaust and filter thats why you say 170bhp not a chance of getting to 220bhp without major internal work (2.1 conversion, cams etc) new injectors,fuel pump the list goes on would be cheaper to sell car and buy one thats got the power you want as standard (subaru etc)