Quote:
Originally Posted by johnnymac
I wanted a big block, but am being told a small block can be faster, will handle better, I realize with the right mods anything is almost possible.
I imagine a big block may run hotter too.
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Johnnymac, I thought I'd give you
MY opinion on this issue....rest assured, it's not "the answer" and the issue has been debated MANY times in this forum and others.
Re: small blocks--they can be made to run as fast as a big block, probably even faster if you look at a lot of the "Run 'n' Gun" results. The small block's advantages are better F/R weight distribution (which greatly affects traction as well as handling), cooler operation (although a heavily "built" small block CAN run as hot as a mildly built big block of equivalent horsepower), lower overall weight (which affects handling and comfort), and economy (my Cobra gets 25 mpg on the highway and I have never needed to downshift to pass).
Re: big blocks--they usually have better straight line performance than small blocks (the problem with that is you will need to turn corners and go around curves sooner or later), the old saying "there is no replacement for displacement" is true when you consider driveability (the greater torque of the big blocks make daily driving much more pleasurable), if you are driving a 427SC model the "cool factor" is definitely a plus (but will be totally lost on those who just want to talk to you at the gas pumps and don't really know anything about what kind of engines Cobras had, anyway), and finally, gas mileage can be and usually is less than a small block (that can be adjusted for with rear-end and transmission gearing).
I chose a small block for my Cobra......but have no problems with friends who went big block in theirs. Mine is VERY quick off the line and most of the big blocks I play with just make tire smoke off the line, but they'll usually catch me or overtake me by the end of the 1/4 mile. Give me an 1/8 mile track anyday!!
[edit--here's a post from a different board on this forum]:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Excaliber
...I still can't hook up Goodyear slicks with a well built but not "killer" side oiler. I get traction somewhere around 85 mph. 1st and 2nd are a joke, up in smoke.
I haven't got a clue why you folks want a killer torque motor, just doesn't make sense to me, I must be missing something. Recently an FFR with a 331 Windsor and dual turbos ran a 10.03 at a 140 something, with street drag tires, here at the local track. I ran that night as well, the track was pretty slippery or he would have been in the 9's. Don't think he needs a bottle, but we talked about it.  |
Whatever you choose, make sure it's something you'll be proud of and drive it as much as you can!
Cheers from Dugly
