Small Block in 427 body - do cubes matter?

[Jack21]

Does size matter? Well, it all depends on your perspective, doesn't it. (Should I go there???)

The '63 and '64 Cobras were initially powered by 260 small blocks, then by 289's. Badging on the side said, "Powered by Ford", and nothing more. Most of the musclecar era cars had the engine displacement badge on the car somewhere.

In '65 & '66, the engine used was the Ford FE 427, although other FE engines (390 - 428) were also used. The badging on the side if the car said, "Ford 427 Cobra". So what does this mean today, particularly when the most popular replica of the Cobra is the '65 '427 S/C, of which only 31 were made???

From what I've read, the consensus seems to be this. If you have a '65 - '66, 427 S/C body style (which most of todays cars are), AND, you have an FE engine (with the requisite chrome, pent roof valve covers) the period correct badge is Ford 427 Cobra.

If you have any other Ford engine, then the "Powered by Ford" badge should be used. Any other engine should have its own logo used. Powered by Chevrolet, Powered by Mopar, Powered by Caterpillar. Or leave the side of the car unbadged.

Anyway, that's my take, and the least hassle when you open the hood. "Is it a real 427?" If the engine is an FE of any displacement with the requisite chrome, pent roof valve covers, you answer, "Yup!"

If you have anything other than an FE engine, and the side emblims simply say, "Powered by Ford"; you can open the hood and the valve covers on the engine say "Cobra", or "Ford Motorsport" , or "Ford Racing".

Anyway, for you guys who don't have "Real 427FE's" under the hood, "Powered by Ford" will keep 'em guessing .