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  #1 (permalink)  
Old 03-07-2008, 01:38 AM
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Question small block vs. big block in a cobra

trying to decide small block or big block? any advice ? pros and cons .any happy big blocks drivers.i am building a classic roadster cobra.
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Old 03-07-2008, 02:51 AM
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You HAD to ask!
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Old 03-07-2008, 04:16 AM
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I'm a very happy big block owner.

I have always preferred a big block due to the reason that it's relatively cheap and easy to get more hp out of one. Regardless of what you do to a small block, it will always be subjected to higher stresses at the same hp levels as a big block. That's just a plain and simple fact.

The real question you have to ask yourself is what do you plan on doing with the car. Determine that, and then pick an engine that fits your use.
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Old 03-07-2008, 04:21 AM
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What Silverback said. I have had both and they each had advantages and disadvantages. I still liked the small block stroker for road courses and it would lap as fast as the big blocks. The big block gives you the power and torque normally at a lower RPM range and is great for cruising plus the sound is just deeper. And if you are going to just go in a straight line, I think they call it drag racing, the Big Block is the way to go.
You could also do some searching on this topic as there must be at least 3,000 posts arguing the pros and cons of each.


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Old 03-07-2008, 04:27 AM
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Just pop the hood of any BIG BLOCK Cobra and your question will be answered. It belongs there.
It's funny that this question has not been addressed before.
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Old 03-07-2008, 05:08 AM
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Oh believe me, this has been addressed many times...with no real valid conclusions either way

I've owned both, I prefer BB for fore/aft G-forces, SB for L/R G-forces.
BB - love the rumble, hate the steering.
SB - loved the nimble handling, hated trying to make it look big.

Shall I make popcorn now?
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Old 03-07-2008, 06:44 AM
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If you go small block, you will always wonder "what if". If you go big block, there will never be any regrets.
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Old 03-07-2008, 07:19 AM
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Unless you are buying an original you are getting a replica which takes advantage of many of the automotive advances through the years. Why not take advantage on engine technology and get a stroked 351 to 4??. Now you have big block performance plus the advantages of a lighter engine.

I have been in and heard both. Unless they are parked next to each other it is hard to dicern the big block. I also did not like the low ground clearance as a result of the big block bell housing. Just my thoughts.
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Old 03-07-2008, 07:35 AM
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You might want to simply ask yourself if you would prefer a sports car or a hot rod. No disrespect to either.
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:16 AM
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No way! I am in on page 1
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:24 AM
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I've got a 427 Windsor stroker. Has the Dart aluminum block, so is very stout AND light weight. I think I get the best of both worlds... big block power (612 hp/615 tq) with small block weight (car weighs 2240 lbs). Am surprised no one has mentioned a few other advantages of the small block... has more room to "breathe" in the engine compartment & you have better accessability during maintenance/service.
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:27 AM
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Big block in a big block car, and small block in a small block car......SIMPLE. Which body do you want? That will answer your question.......
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:30 AM
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Do a search.

You may then want to ask if the 4000 series cars are real.
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:47 AM
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Huh, I didnt know there was an option. Cobras get a big block!! Nuff said.
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Old 03-07-2008, 01:13 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by PatBuckley View Post
Do a search.

You may then want to ask if the 4000 series cars are real.
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Old 03-07-2008, 09:19 PM
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Default Big.

I have a 427/482 KC engine. It is big, but respectful. A pitt bull. Just the way I want it.

Not that it matters....and I acknowledge I am a rookie (no stripes). That said, even though I have just 100 miles on the car, I have been asked TIME AND TIME AGAIN, 'do you have a big bloc 427' or 'do you have a sideoiler'. Hell, I did not know it at the time I ordered it , but is sure feels great to open the hood and say 'yes'.

That and the growl is great.

al
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Old 03-08-2008, 04:05 AM
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My Pond 482 S/O weighs about the same as a cast iron 302.. No weight penalty for a big block there.. 'cept if it's compared to an aluminum block/head 302/Windsor.
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Old 03-08-2008, 04:27 AM
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I have not driven a stroked Windsor yet that feels like a big block and my cast iron block handles great.
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:44 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by boyd henderson View Post
trying to decide small block or big block? any advice ? pros and cons .any happy big blocks drivers.i am building a classic roadster cobra.

I went with a small block, I figured that I wouldn't be able to use everything a 600 hp big block has to offer on the streets. But thats just me.

I'm sure a small block Cobra's power to weight ratio will be more than adequate for the street.

Most importantly, it's your car, build it for you, no one else.

Randy
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Old 03-07-2008, 08:56 AM
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never heard anyone say " damm I wish I went with the small block" yet
427 S/O is there any other
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