Engine conversion advice for mk3 Cortina

[Jumpinjacks]

Right, I was planning a 24v v6 cosworth engine conversion in my mk3 which currently has a 2 litre pinto with type 9 box. But after speaking to my mechanic mate, he's recommending the zetec or duratec as it's lighter and will rev harder.
I was a bit worried that the v6 might throw out the handling ( especially considering the mk3 doesn't have the best handling to start with ) and be heavy on the steering ( with no power steering and a smaller sports wheel ) due to it being so heavy on the front end.
Could anyone share any experience with either engines, and also what's involved for a zetec or duratec conversion?
I'm in the middle of sorting my suspension out. And need to 100% decide on the engine to see what front springs to use.
Thanks in advance
Adam.

[TimoXr4i]

 zetec is a quite lightweight engine for it's power. i drive a focus 2.0, with only an improved exhaust manifold (from an st170), and it pulls great! focus is'nt a lightweight car, got the leather interior and all those stuff...

plus, you can find a zetec abouth anywhere. i'm not sure about the duratec, but the weight is roughly the same iirc. duratecs even come in 2.3 displacement, and that could be a torqey engine, but at both engines it's better to use an aftermarket ECU.

for both engines, you'll need something for the lack of powersteering on your car (the belt runs via the powersteering), maybe replace the alternator, and make or buy an exhaust manifold and a water rail.

lots of kitcars use zetec engines, so maybe you can search on the kitcar sites a bit? should not be to hard to find...

and abouth the cortina suspention, maybe you could find anything to fit from a capri or an escort mk1/2? could improve the handling a lot!

[Jumpinjacks]

Ok thanks,
Capri and mk1/2 escort use different suspension setup.
I'm doing the suspension at the minute anyway so that's no problem