390 FE or 302 EFI

ezirbel · #1 (**permalink**) 03-16-2003, 10:09 AM

I have been looking into building a FFR. I am looking at the engine first. I have 390 FE from a 1963 Ford Galaxie. Is it better to go with a more nostalgic engine or go with a modern day crate engine?

Pete C · #2 (**permalink**) 03-16-2003, 11:04 AM

ezirble,

If you are going after a period correct look and plenty of power go for the FE. If you will use it primarily on the track and want cheep horse power and plenty of upgrades go with a crate motor. In this regard, the Shelby Challenge series cars run 351s and they are ungodly fast! I use mine for dual purpose and I have a blue printed, balanced 390 with polished and ported 427 heads and a 427 B cam and dual 4s. It suits both purposes well and as I’ve said before, I run out of talent before I run out of horse power. That said, the dual 4s and the extra weight are just plain dumb for a race only motor!!

Cheers, Pete C

decooney · #3 (**permalink**) 03-16-2003, 11:10 AM

ezirbel,

tell ya what, if you go with the 302/EFI setup, you can always crate up your 390 and sell it to me ...

ezirbel · #4 (**permalink**) 03-17-2003, 04:52 PM

I'm thinking that I will do the 390 FE. It will give me more of a period look. I'm thinking it might be a cheaper route as well. Money's tight in this economy.

ezirbel · #5 (**permalink**) 03-17-2003, 09:26 PM

It seems as though Factory Five tries to disuade one from going the big block route, saying that it is overpowered and heavy in the front end. Also it might be more expensive in the long run. What is the general feelings out there?

decooney · #6 (**permalink**) 03-18-2003, 11:37 AM

ezirbel,

I tend to agree with the FFR people, for your FFR car. To me, an FFR is a light weight car and really designed around the small block engine platform for best all-around performance and value.

I have an FE engine in my ERA, and I had one in my Unique. Its great, but the car was designed for this engine platform and balance. I've also ridden in some FFR cars with nice 302/FI setups, and they are great! If I had an FFR, I would go with a 351 Windsor type setup, with aluminum heads, intake, etc... and get the best of both worlds. An injected 302 would be great too. Just my .02 cents. Good Luck.