Wanna drive it. Opinions???

[rub35]

I'm searching for the right car and would like some opinions about what I want vs. what I need.

What I want: SPF(1st choice) or possibly ERA car w/ big block 427SO. Big torque, awesome sound, legendary design, originality, etc.

Why: because I have ridden in one and think the performance/torque and sound of this engine are absolutely the best you could hope for. Ideally a modern aluminum block for the weight savings (big block punch and small block handling)

What I want to do: drive the car, not show it

What I see for sale: Very few big blocks in aluminum within my target price range (...duh). , several (ERA's) cast iron blocks -powerful, but heavier handling. I see many nice cars (mostly SPF's) with Roush "427R" small blocks in them. I know that Roush small blocks aren't exactly cheap to install in a new car, but will I get what I'm looking for out of a Cobra with one of these "crate" engines? Seems like they are the better choice for someone who wants to do a lot of driving as far as practicality. I have never driven in one with a Roush engine and want to know what can be expected as far as the differences. Would I get what I'm looking for with the small block 427?

Experienced opinions are much appreciated!
Thanks.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by rub35

Ideally a modern aluminum block for the weight savings (big block punch and small block handling)

Well, you can toss that notion out the window -- it's a myth. The difference between a Pond aluminum FE block and an old-style original FE iron block is only 75 lbs. You won't be able to tell the difference. And you can check those weights here: 427 Ford Engine Block, Pond Engine Blocks FAQ

[RodKnock]

Originally Posted by patrickt

Well, you can toss that notion out the window -- it's a myth. The difference between a Pond aluminum FE block and an old-style original FE iron block is only 75 lbs. You won't be able to tell the difference. And you can check those weights here: 427 Ford Engine Block, Pond Engine Blocks FAQ

You must remember that a Kirkham with an aluminum FE block weighs in at less than 2,150 lbs. And Patrick's ERA with a cast iron 428 runs around 2,650-2,750 lbs, IIRC. So it's all relative.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by RodKnock

You must remember that a Kirkham with an aluminum FE block weighs in at less than 2,150 lbs. And Patrick's ERA with a cast iron 428 runs around 2,650-2,750 lbs, IIRC. So it's all relative.

No, no... 2550 with a half tank of gas. But, I'll go with the 99% odds and say the OP never gets a Cobra anyway. Any Cobra.

[rub35]

Originally Posted by patrickt

No, no... 2550 with a half tank of gas. But, I'll go with the 99% odds and say the OP never gets a Cobra anyway. Any Cobra.

On the contrary, I usually set my sights on a goal and acheive it. I decided that I've waited long enough and it's time to find the one I want or at least the one I can make what I want. I like this forum because you get what you ask for. I asked for opinions and I got some. Thanks guys... keep em coming.

[ERA Chas]

Originally Posted by rub35

I like this forum because you get what you ask for. I asked for opinions and I got some. Thanks guys... keep em coming.

Just be smart enough to heed opinions that are backed up with fact and experience. There are many keyboard jockeys that only spout what they read somewhere else.

[PLDRIVE]

All kidding aside, USE the Search,and u will find info on about any topic.

Lay out a budget (you will exceed what u planned for ). then Buy and build what makes u happy.

You will find a wealth of knowledge on this site, as well as some low budget humor.

Best of luck!

Mark

[Hydramada]

Originally Posted by patrickt

No, no... 2550 with a half tank of gas. But, I'll go with the 99% odds and say the OP never gets a Cobra anyway. Any Cobra.

Better not be heading to Vegas anytime soon.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by Hydramada

Better not be heading to Vegas anytime soon.

Nothing makes me happier than when someone gets the car of their dreams. But you know as well as I that for every "I'm going to get a Cobra" post, and then do, there are a hundred or more that die by the side of the road....

[DAVID GAGNARD]

I would suggest you try to ride in and/or drive as many cars as possible,with various engines,then make up your mind what fits your needs/price range best.......

and if your looking for a driver/cruiser car, don't worry about the weight of an iron block up front,it will not make enough difference in the handling for you to worry about.......

David

[REAL 1]

If you are not interested overly in aesthtics the 427R is a good choice. Much less $$$ then doing a reall BB 427.

The 427R provides plenty of punch and near 427 sound.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by REAL 1

The 427R provides plenty of punch and near 427 sound.

Of course, real FEs snicker and point at 427 style cars that have small blocks in them. But you'll likely develop a tolerance to that.

[DanEC]

The FE motor is actually pretty light once you get rid of the cast iron intake - and with aluminum heads it's nearly a featherweight amongst big block engines.

[PLDRIVE]

Originally Posted by patrickt

Of course, real FEs snicker and point at 427 style cars that have small blocks in them. But you'll likely develop a tolerance to that.

Of course, other cobra owners will ridicule and snicker if your FE engine only puts out 400hp, and you'll never develop a tolerance to that!

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by PLDRIVE

Of course, other cobra owners will ridicule and snicker if your FE engine only puts out 400hp, and you'll never develop a tolerance to that!

You've been listening to that rat ERAChas again.

[ERA Chas]

Originally Posted by PLDRIVE

Of course, other cobra owners will ridicule and snicker if your FE engine only puts out 400hp, and you'll never develop a tolerance to that!

I see you pay attention to my postings PL...
You've swallowed a lot of myths in your young search. Forget the 'handling' difference you're concerned about. You cutting laps with this? Get a small block SPF and you'll be happy-just not a Roush.
Any FE will make the noise you're jazzed about-an SO is for serious work not bragging.

[Got the Bug]

Originally Posted by patrickt

Of course, real FEs snicker and point at 427 style cars that have small blocks in them. But you'll likely develop a tolerance to that.

If you've got a 427 SB with two roll bars you might as well not be seen in public with the car.

[Danr55]

consider a 428 big block FE. Probably closer to your $$ range and looks and sounds great.

[patrickt]

Originally Posted by Danr55

consider a 428 big block FE. Probably closer to your $$ range and looks and sounds great.

Yep, even Chas will admit that, if you are not predominantly racing, it's the best choice you can make.

[Grubby]

Rub35,

I am 20 minutes from you in Clayton. Do you want a ride in a really nice ERA? I am usually at the Friday Cruise-in across from Grays.

Contact me offline if you want to get together.

John
grubbs@tds.net