[Fred Douglass]

This is the kind of interesting and informative thread wh/ makes this site so valuable.
Ron 61, you confirm just about every sb afficianado I know, AND you've got a fairly unique perspective, owning both styles of engine.
Steve C., I can tell you of an very interesting insight or perspective. I'd rather leave the gent's name out, but he IS an SPF dealer in New England with LOTS of raacing and fast driving experience. He said (words to the effect): in a Cobra a small block with about 350-390 hp is all the engine you'll ever need if you want to keep it on the street (literally). More than that, and you'll be constantly on the edge. It's better to have a small-block, with sufficient (but not brutal) power (i.e. not "overstressed")---and use it HARD than it is to have a MONSTROUS MILL under the hood---just waiting to fling you into the weeds.
Initially, I was going to go with a Dart poked out to 427 and c. 575 hp---now I'm thinking same engine, but closer to 480 hp/ft.lbs. People have advised me to save the $, buy the Ford SVO 393 stroker, get used to its 430+ hp, then, instead of rebuildinng it 4 years down the road---sell it (to a kid!) and move up to the Dart--once I've learned my (and the car's) limits. Would I put 600 hp in a 2600 lb. car? Nope. Why? I'm 57---want see 58! Just my $.02 Hope it helps you.

Chow