Club Cobra - Big block or small block?

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Quote:

Originally Posted by ZOERA-SC7XX (Post 1167787)

FE's (and toploaders) are the great link to the old original big block Cobras that I try to emulate with my car. My Cobra may not be real, but my 428 FE and CR toploader is. That's all I need. It's a blast to drive (even when it's cold outside). If I had an FIA Cobra (or a slabside), I'd have a 289 with the same toploader for the same reasons. Doesn't need gobs of horsepower, just lots of street torque, which it does have. Maybe the body/frame configuration is recent, but the drivetrain is 1966 vintage. A few oil drips don't bother me either. Give me the old school for this car. This ain't no Miata.
With that said, everyone is entitled to their own reasons for their build, and that's what makes the world go 'round. I have no disrespect for Chevy powered (or any other) Cobras. If your shoes fit, wear 'em.

This says it all right here. I am going to stick with my gut and go with a BB. Thanks for all the replies, this was quite entertaining.

Quote:

Originally Posted by krkucin (Post 1167906)

This says it all right here. I am going to stick with my gut and go with a BB. Thanks for all the replies, this was quite entertaining.

I have always like big blocks, but I am a realist. There is a lot to love about a FE in a Cobra.

Look at Keith Craft's web site to get an idea what a well built FE is going to cost you. Then decide if a 390 (maybe stroked) will suit you or will you need to go with a 428 or 427 to be happy. Maybe you want a big inch stroker (482 or more)? Do you want an original block or will you plunk down the bucks for a new block?

You still have a lot more decisions to make on your engine.

I myself could not justify the cost of a well built 427 side-oiler or aluminum block 427 FE (Maybe someday). That extra cost is fine if cost is no object, but I like other things in my garage as well, and the 428 does the job well (several originals were produced with 428's). A 390 with the Scat stroker kit also makes sense, and goes about 430 CU. IN. Not too shabby, if I say so myself. Most of us have limitations, but every one of us who has built or bought a Cobra stretched normal limitations just by doing this. I think we are all a cut above the norm.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZOERA-SC7XX (Post 1168004)

If I remember correctly, there were more 428 Cobra's produced than 427's.