Realistic horsepower for the street

[My427stang]

I build for the rpm range the motor will happiest in terms of the driver and car, and then for the street its usually a budget decision of how much power in that range. With those two variables, the hp "happens" at the right time and 400, 500, or 600 it's all fun. Its really more of a torque curve plan for me when I build a street motor.

I dont see any reason to purposely strangle a motor if you can make more power in that rpm range you want, but not wanting to spend the dough makes perfect sense to me, and building with a hp number in mind has always been an odd concept for me for a street car. Drag racer, different story

With that being said, too much power? Don't push the pedal down so much.

[Naumoff]

With such a light car I feel that stroker motors are too much.
I ran a, as close to, stock 427 FE first in my car and was very happy with the power to wait ratio with 360hp to the rear wheels. Cam came on about 3000rpm. Very controllable.
Due to engine problems I was talked into all new crank rods and pistons to get away from the 40+ year old parts.
482 is very fun but way too much for the street. I haven't dyno'd the car yet but she is a beast.
It is all in making sure you are pointed straight when you nail it.
I ran out of road quick with the 427 but with the 482 it is unbelievable.
I like it but for my next Cobra it will have a high revving stock stroke 427.
It is what I fell in love with 24 years ago in my first car.