newbie with a dilemma

[RTrager]

I bought a disassembled '73 Rallye Challenger with the original 340 and A727.  I have all the parts and machine work done for a 400+ HP 340 but can't decide if I should use it.  I also have a 440 that needs to be built.  My dilemma is whether or not I should keep the car with matching numbers.  I heard a lot about 340's being good engines but have never had one.  I love 440 engines from my old B-body days but don't know if it'd be worth the extra money to build it and possibly devalue the car.  Should I give the 340 a try or go straight to a 440?  I plan to use the car for fun and want it to be a good driver.

[burdar]

Totally up to you.  Being an original 340 car, I'd probably go that route.  73's aren't going to be worth a lot of money either way.  What are your plans for the rest of the car?  Very few people go back to stock appearing with the 72-74's...I'd like to see more of them restored that way.

[Katfish]

Use the 340; car will handle a lot better.  440 is not the engine for a driver.

[Jesus H Chrysler]

I noticed a HUGE difference when I switched out the 318 for the 440.  Compared to the small block, my car handled like it had a cow sitting on the hood.  And that was with the upgraded "Hemi" suspension to handle the big block.  FWIW 400hp small block and 400hp big block make the same power.  You'll get more torque from the BB, but you'll have more weight to carry and it won't be as nimble on the street.

[usraptr]

Even though my car has a 440, if I was you I'd at least start with the 340 for all the reasons listed above.  Good luck. 

[jimynick]

Even though my car has a 440, if I was you I'd at least start with the 340 for all the reasons listed above.  Good luck. 

Plus, unless you're rolling in it, there'll be a fair outlay of dough to get the BB up and in. Find someone with a hot 340 in their car and get them to take you for an Italian Tune Up, then see if you really think you need that 440. 

[RTrager]

Thanks for the input.  I agree that I should give the 340 a try.  Especially since I don't have deep pockets and it would be a hassle to sell all the 340 parts in order to build a 440.

[HP_Cuda]

Since you are not going to use the 440 - mind giving some specs on it as I'm always on the hunt for a spare.

[RTrager]

The 440 I have is a '74 with a cast crank that needs to be bored .030.  It's a good core if you stay under 600 HP.  I plan to hold on to it for a while.

[HP_Cuda]

Thanks for the info, I'm looking for a stamped E or F code HP block.

The 440 I have is a '74 with a cast crank that needs to be bored .030.  It's a good core if you stay under 600 HP.  I plan to hold on to it for a while.

[torredcuda]

No brainer to me - 400hp 340 already done and it`s matching numbers! Powershifting a 340 at 7000 + rpm is fun! Ask how many 440 owners can do that with confidence. 

[Chryco Psycho]

What are the plans for the car ?
 If you are going to sell it obviously the #s drivetrain is the way to go if you are keeping the car then you have to build what you want

[VTMopar]

They are original only once!     

[RTrager]

What are the plans for the car ?
 If you are going to sell it obviously the #s drivetrain is the way to go if you are keeping the car then you have to build what you want

I want this car to be a driver.  Because of that, I'll probably put an OD tranny it and therefore it won't remain numbers matching.  I live in a rural area so there will be a lot of highway miles.  3000 RPM at 60 MPH will get old quick, not to mention, terrible gas mileage.

[Chryco Psycho]

Done correctly you will not have to modify the body & the original drivetrain can be re-installed later if desired