I know the VR6 isn't similar to the 2.8l 12v but are any rods, pistons, etc compatible?

Is this a noob question or something? I havent had time to take a look at the numbers and specs, which is why I asked in case someone knows off the top of their head.

(I know they're not even close to being the same motor).

if they aren't even close to being the same motor they are more than likely not compatable.

they are not even close, nothing will work

Are there any forged rods or anything for the 12v? Or am I going to have to get them custom made?

IIRC the 12V rods are the same as the 30V but I can't confirm that. Why do you wish to build up the 12V? The money spend will not even be close to the rewards you get. The 2.7T would be the best option in a B5/C5 car

Money isn't an issue (not to sound like a dick or anything). I want to build something that hasn't really been done before. I know the money vs results is what makes the 12v the worst but I think if it was highly modified I could get some decent power out of it. This is the first Audi I have owned. All of my previous experience is with e30's.

I understand your interest in doing something that hasn't been done before, but would it be worth it to you to have a 250hp car when you could do 500hp for the same price? The 12V motor just does not flow at all, everything is very simple and outdated. There are A LOT of projects you could do that have never been done before, but I just wouldn't recommend this one.

BTW, I love E30s. George (our engineer) has a bunch of old school 5 and 6 series projects