[craigayl]

Wannabe1

The engine CG in a Cobra is about 27 inches behind the front axel, so the engine contributes about 2/3 front to 1/3 rear. If one engine weighs 100 lbs more than another, it is only going to cause about a 33lb weight shift. In fact, my SPF is about 47% front, 53% rear with my 514.

Before you decide on an engine, you need to give some consideration to how you will use your car.

Daily driver? A moderately tuned Windsor

Road racing? A well built Windsor.

Shine and show? An FE

Drag racing? A well built 358 (514 or bigger) with an automatic

A “shock and awe” cruiser? Any 385 with a 4 or 5 speed.

The possibilities are endless, but note, when making the decision, engine weight would only be a factor in serious track racing. Most people will not notice a 30-50lb weight shift or a 100-150 total weight difference. At least for me, I wanted all the HP I could get at a reasonable price. I wound up going the Ford crate route. I just couldn’t find anything better than a $7K, 600HP Ford 514 crate.

One last thing, you should know something about the car you want to buy. Some manufactures do not recommended a BB and some do not recommend a SB. Don’t get caught with the right engine wrong car…

Hope some of this helps

Craig