Quote:
Originally Posted by RodKnock
For me, there's a significant "value" difference. With all other things being equal, I will buy the Cobra with the 428 every day of the week and twice on Sundays over a Cobra with a 390. But that's just me. Part of the decision for me is emotional and I do not get emotional about a Cobra with a 390 regardless of how "it looks on paper."
The '67 Mustang GT could have had a 390 in it, depending on options. Shelby or someone inside SA decided to "upgrade" to a 428 for the GT500. Sorry folks, I can't remember the story.
The OP seems to be steering towards a 390 and that's great, if that's what he chooses. My opinion always seems to be in the minority. 
My viewpoint is biased of course. I also chose an alloy body, because I wanted to closer in authenticity to the original. I think the 428 is the better choice between the two (390 versus 428). IMHO.  |
Rod,
We agree more than we differ on this. The main difference is with your line "all other things being equal." I assume you are talking cost as well in that statement? If the 428 block were $100 or so more than a 390 block I would certainly consider it. However with most of them now in the $1800 - $2500 range, and a 390 block in the $100 range, there is just no justification for a replica with a 428 based on that cost differential. If someone scores a huge deal, or had one laying around, sure, but at 20X the cost, I still don't get the point. If someone asks what's under the hood, and you answer a 445" FE, no one knows what the block is. If it means that much tell 'em it's a 428 block, other than getting under the car and checking the block number against a reference book, there is no way to tell, and THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE. Damn, for the $2000 saved, you could buy some very, very cool parts for the engine, there's no telling what you could buy. Again, I'm with you all the way on the FE, I just don't get the allure of a 428 over a 390, especially when you bore and stroke both, which almost everyone does now. There's just no real difference.