396 doesn't really have to be a big block, you can bore out a 350 to a 396 small block, its pretty outrageous but you can do it, i posted a forum about it a while back but there is kits for it, go on www.strokerkits.com and the part number is 1-40900-1, that is the kit that you would use for basically the bottom end for a 396 small block, in other words, you are boring your motor .150 over, but it is deffinetly possible to do it, i was almost talked into it, but the price was a little steep for what i could afford at the time, but i hope this was some help, personally i would do it, you get the power of a small block but the internals are as good as a big block, and it also takes some weight off the car, if your into racing, it might make a difference. good luck.

 

yeah, a 396 small block is available, they built one in chevy hih performance magazine a year or so ago

 

Although I agree with going the small block route, if you really want to have a screamer and have the cash, build a 427 big block. It has big low end torque and can rev with the small block engine, and is a lot sturdier. The 427 will put out 700 HP at the crank without any power adders, and on pump gas.
Here is the build up From Popular Hot Rodding, for the Engine Master competition. This build up tests out at 697 HP @ 6500 RPM, and 606 LB/FT of torque at 5800 RPM. At the low end of the RPM scale it developed 280 HP @ 3000 RPM, and 490 LB/FT of torque @ 3000 RPM
http://www.popularhotrodding.com/tec...ock/index.html

 

383 stroker

 

427 kicks ***...if you have the cash. do that . even on the heads its stamped GM PERFORMANCE....

 

they do kick major butt, how bout thrown a 7 litre ls7 in, its work, but kickass

 

I sure like the 396. That's what's in my 72. But, big block parts are high. You have to take that into consideration.

 

thanks for everyone's opinions!! i'm still undecided and i do have a lot of time to decide. I'm in college and won't get a chance to put major work into it until the end of may, so i'll use this time to think about my needs, my cashflow, and of course my wants. this car is bone bare, its only a frame and a body, so i definitely have TONS of work ahead of me. if only i could have three engines and just swap in whatever i want for the day...