Sal,
Thanks for you kind words!
When I looked at the Ford 5.4 (without ribs) and saw people getting over 700 at the REAR WHEELS in their new GT's, I decided the ribs were moon glow--(more useful for selling engines than running them). At that kind of power you simply can't use it any more. I think the original 427's are slow so that gives you my perspective. I think the new 482's are mind blowing...PERFECT!
Now, (just a thought experiment) if we left the block solid in the lifter valley then it would certainly be stiffer...but at what cost? Weight. Weight is the enemy. 800hp is way more than I ever plan to put in one of our cars. As is, we have a power to weight ratio 30% greater than a Ferrari Enzo. We are rapidly approaching F1 power to weight ratios. After having driven many, many, many miles in both 289's and 427's I realized I loved the power of the 427 and the handling of the 289. Now we can have both.
David
