Another problem with "crate engines" is that the ECUs require inputs from multiple sensors or devices. The days of simple cars died with the Rover V8, I feel.
As cars get more like computers this need gets ever more difficult to manage: Simon mentioned that the Jaguar V8 needs inputs from many, many things, including the steering pump, I guess because as the load increases the engine has to respond. If it isn't a Jaguar steering pump it won't play.
This need for support may be why MMC seems to be getting further and further into bed with BMW.
I think this is the easy way Peter, particularly if you want add ons like ABS. And I guess that is soon to be compulsory. That said I am sure there are electronics guys out there who could supply an ECU and certainly there are lots who can adjust one on a rolling road.
The MMC approach with the roadster where they even use Ford instruments definitely smacks a bit of "lets take the easy way".
