I have been thinking if I was going to do a motor swap into my Samurai, this motor is at the top of my list.
By the way, the newest N/A version of this motor (2007 model year) is as high as 177 HP and 170 ft lbs torque.
GM is really making some sick motors these days.
Anyone have some hard and fast dimensions on this motor and weights? The older N/A versions are getting pretty cheap as they are hitting junk yards more and more these days.
Basic info at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_Family_II_engine#Ecotec
There are several rear wheel drive transmission options now and many adapters. The most interesting is the Asin family of transmissions. Using the bellhousing from the RWD manual cars should allow you to mate up to a Toyota truck, Isuzu and many similar 4x4 transmissions.
There are adapters for the T5 family of transmissions, and from there you should be able to mate to a Dana 300 or Atlas.
There are also adpaters that convert it to anything that uses the Chevy bolt pattern as used on the V8s. So that open up most all of the automatic trans mission choices. 200R4 would probaby be plenty behind these motors.
Honestly, I most interested in mating this up to the Samurai 5 speed. I think if I used a 150hp or less version of the motor that the transmission and clutch should be able to deal with it.
In the past I had a VW 1.8 gas motor mated to the Samurai 5 speed. That was a 100 HP motor with good torque. I never had any issues with the clutch or transmission. I felt the car still needed more power though.

It was far better then stock, and I liked it a lot more then the 1600 16 valve choice. (Better torque, less shifting.)
These Ecotec motors are coming down in price, especially the normally aspirated versions. I would like to see some of the dimensions to confirm they will be a good fit.
My simple rule of thumb, don't bother doing a motor swap unless it is going to double your horse power, or if you really love that type of motor. (diesel, turbo, rotary..) All other reasons are void in my humble opinion. (I have done 3 motor swaps and helped with many more.)
Share your info!! Lets see where this takes us.
-Wayne
p.s. My stock motor is making some noises...