Need engine, which one?

[dlampe]

I have a good friend getting ready for his first cobra. As many of us were on our first car, he is budget conscious. He Would love a big block FE (390) but maybe a 351 would be cheaper. He is just going to cruise around in it. I thought some of you might have some advice or even be looking for a chance to upgrade your setup and in need of a buyer for your old mill.

[blykins]

What's he lookin to spend?

[62Cobra]

Which engine to go with is the major question after which car maker to choose. Alot of it depends on dedication to originality and budget. If the car is a 289 the options range from 289, 302,331 through 347 all redily available, relitively cheap and are upgradeable with modern technology while maintaing that great original look. If 427 style is your choice then all of the FE blocks are out there 390 on up to 428. A 351 is also available and although its a great choice for power and very popular.....it lacks originality and hey...does it say 351 on the side of the car or what. But their all better than a painted up blue 350 Chevy crate motor....don't go that route!! Get a vett if you want chevy power!!!!

[Sailfish]

As a new Superformance Cobra owner I struggled with the same question. I wanted a big block, but the extra weight was a hindrance. I finally settled on a small block----Roush 342R. It's light weight, makes good horsepower (450) and obtains high rpms quickly. And, it's fairly docile around town. Plus, it's got a 2 year warranty. Granted, it's not faithful to the original, but all things considered, it provided me with the best bang for the buck. Regardless which engine you choose, it's still a Cobra and you'll have a lot of fun!

[1985 CCX]

O would sugg3est the 390FE.
Why?
1) Is is affordable compared to pro built 351w
2) He will want an FE sometime down the road
3) It has the right look
4) They are easy to source
5) Take a running 390, new heads, H2O pump, oil pump and pan, new intake and carb, it will produce 400/400+ easy and run on pump gas for ~$3500 to $4000
Last) He will want an FE sometime down the road

[admcobra427]

dlampl, may have engine for your friend, 351w/418, ENGINE FACTORY build less than 2600 miles, still in car (superformance) 505 hp all the best parts, may sell trans also. tko-500. lots of chrome, reason for sell building big block. e-mail industrialele341@bellsouth.net or call 859 238-7984 work # 8-5am thanks allen

[Michael P. Wole]

I just pulled a mild 351w from my car last nite...going with a more radical 351. Engine I took out is plenty but too much is still not enough in my eyes.
Engine will smoke the tires in 1st and second gears...it is '74, .030 over mild cam, vic performer with 600cfm Holly.
I am 60 miles from you..
Would make a real deal on it...
mpwbmi@gmail.com cell 618-599-1035

Mike Woley