My dad wants to get a little project going and my buddy found me a 305 with a transmission about 175k on motor for around 500 bucks for both motor and tranny. its automatic, and i want to do a lot with it since it will be me and my dad. My dad so far has suggested the 350..i would like to hear all you guys got to offer me.
I have an automatic V6 1988. so pretty sure anything would be better. But i'd like to hear your imput

 

i would go with a 350 if i had the choice. i have the 305 now and im happy with it but i know i would be able to do much more with a 350

 

I agree with the above, but 500 for that combo dont seem bad to me assuming its in good shape. can you hear it run? and the fact that you 2 can put a 350 in it at a later date. at least you would be started. most anything you put on that 305 will go to a 350, so when you get your 350 later it will be an easy swap.

 

A 305 is a good motor and that price with the tranny isn't bad but a 350 has way more potential. But it depends on what you want out of your car

 

I'll go for the 350...

 

horsepower

305: 170-185

350: 235-240

Torque:

305: 255-270 ft/lbs

350: 330-345 ft/lbs

I am not sure if this is exact, this is just off memory of the past camaros' i have owned, but you do the math, it also depends on if it is TBI or TPI, obviously TPI is going to be better. but if you ever have to replace the injectors, youll be glad to have tbi lol. anyway hope this helps. you can look up online the stats, what year is the motor? i can order a crate 383 stroker for $4.9k with 405HP; 440 lbs. Torque; 4 Bolt Main Block. and i may even get my 55% discount on top of that (i wish) hope this helps!!!

 

If I understand this correctly the engine has 175,000 miles on it not sure about the trans but $500 is more than I would spend on it. Keep in mind it probably needs rebuilt its roughly the same cost to rebuild a 350 as a 305 but there is a big difference in performance capability.

 

also keep in mind the cost of everything you will need to convert, (computer, wiring harness) my advice by a wrecked one (usually they were running before they were wrecked) with a 350 or 305 in it, then you will have everything you need right there to upgrade your car, i do this EVERY time i convery something you will save loads of time and $$$$ ... search craigslist for parts car camaros' either under cars&trucks or auto parts. there are pages of wrecked camaros for under $1000

 

i'm thinkin then that the 350 is the way to go..

 

the trans may be shot so there will be more money to fix that to