Quote:
Originally Posted by Laird Scooby
Hmmmm, a magnesium alloy Buick 215 - that could be interesting! 
I expect it was used on the VW air-cooled to promote cooling?   |
Possibly, although Aluminium is both stronger and has a better thermal conductivity than Magnesium. I suspect it was partly done for weight saving, as the engine location isn't ideal for vehicle handling
You can get aftermarket crankcases in Aluminium alloys now, intended mostly for performance engines
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