I would stay steer clear of the Renault version, they were used for years in the kit industry because it was the only cheap available transaxle, suitable for fitting to Rover V8's but no more & have a poor gear change. The output drive flanges are low when fitted in a mid engined installation so expect to see drive shafts running uphill.
Porsche G50 variant is the most robust transaxle which is suitable for big power/torque applications, suitable for American V8 installations, the gear shift is positive & smooth. Gear linkage for a centre change is more interesting unless you do a cable conversion. Inverting the gearbox actually helps the driveshaft angle for the mid engine applications. The big down side is price, a stock 5 speed G50 used to be about £1500, now they are £3000 (Blame Ultima as they created a demand for the used boxes), A stock G50 doesn't have an LSD either so factor another £750 for a Quaife TB diff which do work very well. G50/50's are the best but they are like hens teeth, the later 6 speeds are very long & stick out of the back of the car along way (gear selector is the rear most item).
The best alternative these days is Audi, good solid transaxles which are capable of taking the torque of the modern TDI motors. Under £500 should find you a decent one. The only down side will be the output flange height, because the gearbox is installed the correct way round the output flanges will be 75mm below crank height.
Porsche 914/6 ok if you can find one & suitable for VX power.
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Originally Posted by Fiat 131 Abarth#2
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