Barra Engine for Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying the Legendary Aussie Powerplant

Introduction

If you’re a car enthusiast, drag racer, or someone chasing power on a budget, you’ve probably heard of the Barra engine. Born from Ford Australia’s engineering brilliance, the Barra engine has carved a name for itself in both street and motorsport performance circles. If you’re searching for a Barra engine for sale, you’re not alone — demand has soared in recent years due to its impressive performance potential and affordability.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know before purchasing a Barra engine: the different models, what makes them so popular, where to buy, what to check, pricing, and much more.

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What is a Barra Engine?

The Barra engine refers to a family of inline-6 (I6) engines produced by Ford Australia between 2002 and 2016. Found in Ford Falcon and Territory models, the Barra gained legendary status for its robust construction, turbocharged variants, and immense tuning potential.

Key Features:

• Inline-6 configuration

• DOHC with VCT (Variable Camshaft Timing)

• Available in naturally aspirated (N/A) and turbocharged versions

• Built from 2002 to 2016

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Popular Barra Engine Variants

There are several versions of the Barra engine, but three are especially sought-after:

1. Barra 182 (2002–2005)

• Found in BA Falcon

• First iteration with VCT

• Naturally aspirated

• Cast iron block, alloy head

2. Barra 240T / 245T / 270T (Turbocharged)

• Found in BA/BF XR6 Turbo & FPV F6

• Factory turbocharged

• Forged crankshaft, oil squirters (in later versions)

• Excellent base for high-horsepower builds

3. Barra 195 / 270T (2008–2016)

• Found in FG Falcon

• Improved camshaft timing

• Revised intake manifold

• Most refined and sought-after versions

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Why the Barra Engine is So Popular

The Barra engine is often compared to the Toyota 2JZ for its strength and tunability. Here’s why it’s so appealing:

✅ Strong Bottom End

The Barra’s cast iron block can handle high boost levels without modification. Many enthusiasts run over 700–1000hp on a stock bottom end.

✅ Turbo Capability

Factory turbo variants come with heavy-duty internals, making them ideal for high-horsepower builds.

✅ Cost-Effective

Compared to JDM engines or LS swaps, Barra engines are relatively cheap for the performance you get.

✅ Tuning Community

A large tuning community offers plenty of support, parts, guides, and dyno-proven maps.

✅ Proven Performance

Barra-swapped cars are dominating the drag strips and time attack circuits in Australia and increasingly worldwide.

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Barra Engine for Sale: Where to Buy

Finding a Barra engine for sale has become easier, thanks to online platforms, specialist wreckers, and even international exporters.

🔍 Top Places to Look:

1. eBay Australia

Search for “Barra engine for sale” to find listings from both private sellers and wreckers.

2. Facebook Marketplace

Local listings for complete engines or rolling shells with Barra setups.

3. Specialist Barra Engine Sellers

Companies like Powerhouse Engines, Plazmaman, and Atomic Performance often sell reconditioned or high-performance Barra engines.

4. Auto Wreckers / Junkyards

Wrecked Falcons and Territories are common sources of Barra engines at a lower cost.

5. Importers (for buyers outside Australia)

For U.S., UK, and NZ buyers, Barra engines can be imported via specialized importers such as:

• JDM Engine Depot (USA)

• Spool Imports

• Goleby’s Parts

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New vs. Used vs. Rebuilt Barra Engines

🔧 Used Engines

• Cheapest option

• Check compression and service history

• Ideal for budget builds or spares

🔧 Rebuilt Engines

• Refurbished with new gaskets, rings, bearings

• Mid-tier price point

• Peace of mind for mild to moderate builds

🔧 High-Performance Engines

• Built for 600–1200hp

• Forged pistons, rods, upgraded valvetrain

• Most expensive, but ready for serious racing or street abuse

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Barra Engine Prices (2025 Update)

Prices vary depending on location, condition, and included components (loom, ECU, transmission, etc.).

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What to Check Before Buying a Barra Engine

When inspecting a Barra engine for sale, here are the must-check items:

✅ Compression Test

Make sure all cylinders are within 10% of each other.

✅ Turbo Condition (if applicable)

Check for shaft play, oil leaks, and spool noise.

✅ Head Gasket / Overheating Signs

Look for oil in the coolant, white smoke, or milky oil — signs of a blown head gasket.

✅ Wiring Harness & ECU

Barra swaps require original wiring and ECU or aftermarket standalone management systems.

✅ Engine Mounts & Accessories

Check for brackets, alternator, power steering pump, etc., if you plan a complete swap.

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Barra Engine Swap: What You Need

A full Barra engine swap into another vehicle (like a BMW E36, Nissan Silvia, or Mustang) is a popular project worldwide.

🧰 Common Swap Requirements:

• Engine + Turbo + Manifolds

• Wiring Loom & ECU

• Transmission (often 4-speed auto or T56 6-speed)

• Engine mounts & adapter plates

• Fuel system upgrades

• Cooling system

• Driveshaft modifications

• Standalone ECU or custom-tuned factory ECU

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Barra vs Other Popular Engine Swaps

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Legal Considerations for Barra Engine Swaps

If you’re importing or swapping a Barra engine, be aware of:

📜 Emissions Compliance

Make sure the swap meets your region’s emissions laws.

📜 Registration

Some states/provinces require inspections or engineering certifications for engine swaps.

📜 VIN and Engine Number Matching

Always verify that the engine number is legal and not listed as stolen.

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Barra Engine Performance Upgrades

Once you’ve got your Barra, there’s a world of upgrades available:

💨 Basic Bolt-Ons:

• Intercooler kits

• Turbo upgrades (GTX, Pulsar, BorgWarner)

• Fuel injectors

• High-flow fuel pumps

• Exhaust systems

• ECU remap (via HP Tuners or Haltech)

🛠️ Built Motor Options:

• Forged pistons and rods

• Upgraded oil pump gears

• Head studs

• Stage 3 cams

• Valve springs + retainers

Barra engines have been known to push 1000+ horsepower reliably with the right supporting mods.