The offset is only really obvious from below Richard, when I started to cut out a cardboard template, and it wouldn't fit symmetrically. Bear in mind that the gerbox is also canted over to the nearside at ten or fifteen degrees. The crank is about two inches from centre based on the crosshead struts. Even so the alternator is a tight fit on the nearside.
Loads of cars have had offsets, probably the most well known being the Escort Twin Cams, which needed offset to make space for the carbs. Offset irritates my OCD tendencies, I like things squared up, but then again with a transverse engine, the whole thing is untidy.
And if you ever look under the bonnet of a Lancia Fulvia....... well.........
