Austinma62

Hey guys,

My dad currently has a broken oil pump on a 396 in his 70 chevelle. He's thinking about rebuilding the motor and souping it up, or ditching the 396 and going with a 454 and starting from there. My question is what kind of performance can you get out a 396 and how much would that cost versus getting a 454 and starting with that motor and what kind of numbers can you expect? Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Z28 6spd

iTrader: (3)

Any big block would be a good choice. Generally speaking, the 454 would be easier to make power with and have more torque down low due to the longer stroke. As far as cost, 396,427 or 454 would be about the same $ to build. It just comes down to how much power he's looking to make and what he wants to do with the car - street, race or a little of both.

Several years ago, I ran mid 11's in my Nova with a basically stock 396 with untouched GM oval port heads, .600 lift solid cam, and an old Edelbrock torker intake. With modern cylinder heads and roller cams, making power with any big block is very easy.

93Polo

iTrader: (5)

To give you an idea on the 396:
http://www.chevelles.com/forums/13-p...-bb-408-a.html

If you want power a 496 (stroked 454) is the way to go. Chevelles.com has had some nice build topics. I also saw 396 block 435 stroker build topic recently. Most will tell you bang for the buck a 454 block is better (stock crank or stroker) but I would say it depends on your goals, and what you need to do to this motor.

Austinma62

This will be a street car with occasional strip use. Money is a concern but if there is not much difference in actual build up of a 454, than that will be more that likely the route he will go. Thanks for the input guys.

Iceman2X91

A 396 versus a 454 same budget the 454 will make more power.

uxojerry

Buy a Dart block and use your rods and crank. 4.6" bore and you have 499 cubes.