I've been wondering if a Jeep wrangler 4.0 I6 and transmission wouldn't be a decent fit. I know the HP is less but most VX's are probably running on the same HP more or less with worn out engines. ?? The 4.0 lasts forever and are easy to find.
I'm guessing that an inline 6 would be waaaay too long to fit in that confined space without stretching the nose outward. Not sayin it couldn't be done but the V8 is probably actually easier.