are sb 427's really 427 c.i.'s

[cobrarkc]

Originally Posted by Streetwize

Rich,

I think you may be right regarding the head/valve layout but even considering that these days 427" is really the realm of the big inch small block, much lighter rotating mass (my bobweight is like 1830G), guys are building small blocks in the 470 and even 480 cube range these days. 1 7/8" and 2" header sizes that weren't even dreamed of 15 yrs ago for smallblocks, now they're common place. And I do agree most of the Windsor stuff is still a traditional wedge, however the port angles and lighter valvetrain mass (especially in that 280-320CFM headflow range) is still an advantage at higher RPM (above the torque peak)over say the Edelbrock FE head.

Wize
I quess you don't know that Keith Craft stage II heads flow 320+ cfm and stock Tunnelport heads flow 350cfm and there are couple people manufacturing SOHC heads that flow 400cfm and they are making kits for complete engines now. On the FE forum Ohio George was just telling everyone how he ran his SOHC motors to 8k+ back in the 60's. As you stated it costs big money but the old saying still holds true. "There is no substitute for cubic inches".
Small blocks are fun as you can see I have one, but there is nothing like that kick in the pants you get from a BIG BLOCK!