Small Block VS. Big Block

[nivvy]

I know that Big Blocks bring more value to your car but as far as performance builds... man some of those seriously big stroked small blocks make huge power!!! The 2006 Pump gas drags naturally aspirated small block class were a little faster than the naturally aspirated big block class !!! with less cubes!!!

[360 'CUDA]

I like small blocks but the fastest my Valiant went was only 10:62 so maybe I did it wrong 

[Carlwalski]

So I guess there's no question so is it statement?   I like both and am lucky enough to have both.
The 340ci is not stock around the 400hp mark once we are done....and man it pulls hard and sounds super crisp.

The 'Cuda will be my drivers car where-as the Challenger is more my cruiser and is better suited to highway brawls over stop light action. Though, it's built stock and to be more of a cruiser....still lights them up with ease though.  


 

[71340RT]

A small block built right is more than a hand full. I like the big block torque but I'll have to say I've seen some small blocks that can more than handle there own on the street or at the drag strip.

[Chryco Psycho]

I prefer the big block from a design standpoint

[Cuda Cody]

Big Block = Big torque.... At low RPMs!

[asm74]

I prefer the big block from a design standpoint

Can you elaborate?  what are the critical design differences between a big block and small block?  I'm really asking this, i have no experience with big block mopars...

[MEK-Dangerfield]

Can you elaborate?  what are the critical design differences between a big block and small block?  I'm really asking this, i have no experience with big block mopars...

I don't what exactly Chryco means by that, but for one, the intake design on the big-blocks is better. Rather than relying on the coolant flow to cool it, it is raised up to allow air-flow to keep it cool underneath. The purpose of keeping the intake cool, is so the carb. doesn't get hot. A hot carb. can have vapor lock issues.


  Mike

[Moparal]

For starters
small block has less head clamping ...10 bolts as big block 17
water ports in the intake on sm blk
intakes are easier to change on a big block
water pumps easier to change on a big block
easier to do timing chains on big blocks
oil pumps easier to change on big block

[Hopalong]

Don't forget the goofy lifter angle (59*) of the small block.

[Plum6Pak]

I like both but if faced with a decision and had a choice I'd go big block for sure. You can build anything to beat just about anything else with enough money but bang for the buck, the big block already has the torque and more potential for the same money spent. Now I wouldn't go pull out an original 340 out of a Cuda or Challenger and drop in a big block but if building up a non numbers car I'd go big block hands down. But, I may be just a tiny bit bias. 

[IMNCARN82]

I've had both. A 340 and a 440. Neither were stock. I have to admit this 340 can be quite a handfull especially with a 4 speed.     All in all......the 340 Rocks!      People see the hood badges and underestimate.  But I'm usually gone by then...     

[whitesatinmopar]

I like both but if faced with a decision and had a choice I'd go big block for sure. You can build anything to beat just about anything else with enough money but bang for the buck, the big block already has the torque and more potential for the same money spent. Now I wouldn't go pull out an original 340 out of a Cuda or Challenger and drop in a big block but if building up a non numbers car I'd go big block hands down. But, I may be just a tiny bit bias. 

  But I've never owned a 340, and I understand the earlier years were a much better motor? Which I don't fully understand unless it deals with the mid to late 70's emmsions requirements, but who is going to build one back to stock or totally factory correct for a street car today?

[Mr. 440SixPack]

Hmmm... I will use this topic to ask a question... Lets say we have two cars, both have same transmission, same rear end, same tires but one car has stock 340+6 pack engine and the other one has stock 440+6 pack. Which car would win a 1/4 mile and 1/8 drag race.

[IMNCARN82]