[Tommy]

My small block motor has 410 cubuic inches, 9.8:1 compression ratio, hydraulic roller lifters/cam and a single Holley four barrel carb. The components were optimized for maximum torque from 2500-6000 RPM. On the track it accelerates rapidly to 140 MPH and probably would have another 15 MPH in it if the straights were longer. On street tires, the rear end will break loose if I give it full throttle at 50 MPH in third gear. For me, it is more than enough torque for street and track use. A larger, heavier, more powerful engine might modestly improve top end speed (that I have yet to reach) and acceleration above 120 MPH. It would also increase the demands on my drive line, suspension and brakes. I think a well thought out small block is the optimum engine for a well balanced track car the size of a Cobra.

Now, if you want to nod knowingly when some stranger drving a Nissan asks, "Does that thing have a 427 in it?", get a big block. Or lie.