"I don't have the numbers with me but I believe my engine (365 hp at 5,500 rpm 398 ft lbs torque at 4,400 rpm) T5 and Ford king cobra clutch was around $7500. Rosanne's set up was around $6200."
Richard,
Perhaps I misunderstood. Are your quoted prices inclusive of engine, trans and clutch? I took it as just the complete engine price only. If so I apologize.
My original point should have been that these days a custom built engine that does not produce
at least one HP per cubic inch is not a good value-especially in a well spec'd and executed car like this.
Without looking too hard, here's an example from FRPP:
http://www.fordracingparts.com/parts...KeyField=10755
A stroked 351 (392) aluminum heads 430HP / 450TQ needing only a carb, wires, fuel pump and coil for $6995 at MSRP. That's 65 MORE HP than the more powerful build for nearly the same expense. Good value and not too overpowering for such a light car.
Here's a 351/400 complete and "hot run and tested" engine, complete to the air cleaner, from the Engine Factory for an MSRP of $7995:
http://www.enginefactory.com/Ford_351W_400Carb.htm
This is 98HP more than the lesser powered 351. Both the above are pump gas engines.
I am not affiliated with any engine builders.
I believe you had a good experience with this engine builder. I feel that a 351 that only produces 302HP is not a good value even at remanufacturer prices. (Which these do not appear to be.)
I just think that fine car could have gotten more engine for very nearly the same expense.