The Classic big block vs small block question
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 6,314
Likes: 508
From: South-central Missouri
I've owned SBs and BBs and have driven C3s - have one in the garage now, in fact. But, I'm still unsure which I prefer when it comes to the C3s. Having BOTH would solve the question as to which set of keys I took to the garage; it would depend on the mood and purpose that day. For me, it breaks down this way at any given moment...
BB Pros over SB:
Seat of the pants omph!
Drag racing
"that sound" and that throbbing that permeates thru the car...give me goose bumps!
SB Pros over BB:
Handling agility - especially in the twisties (and I love twisties!)
Easy to work on, and parts are somewhat less expensive
Gas mileage...but then again, who cares about gas mileage in a Corvette driven only on weekends IF the weather is nice??
The C3 in the family is a 69, owned by my wife Ami. We looked and test drove a dozen or more cars, including some having various 454s (nothing too radical tho). In the end, the little 350/350 thru the 4-speed and the 4.11 was by far the most agile and responsive (quick!) of the bunch. With side pipes on 'er and headers, and a mild cam ... she's real fine - her '69!
My current Vette is the 90 ZR-1. The Z scratches my handling the twisties itch (don't even go there, C3'ers!), so that base is covered. Were the 69 mine, I'd have a hard time pulling that sweet little 350 outta there - she runs soooo nice - but I'd love to have an L88 clone in there, or maybe a rumpity 502...with chrome Hookers side pipes...yeah...
Bottom line...Don't compromise. Get what ya like. Plenty to like about about both motors.
P.
BB Pros over SB:
Seat of the pants omph!
Drag racing
"that sound" and that throbbing that permeates thru the car...give me goose bumps!
SB Pros over BB:
Handling agility - especially in the twisties (and I love twisties!)
Easy to work on, and parts are somewhat less expensive
Gas mileage...but then again, who cares about gas mileage in a Corvette driven only on weekends IF the weather is nice??
The C3 in the family is a 69, owned by my wife Ami. We looked and test drove a dozen or more cars, including some having various 454s (nothing too radical tho). In the end, the little 350/350 thru the 4-speed and the 4.11 was by far the most agile and responsive (quick!) of the bunch. With side pipes on 'er and headers, and a mild cam ... she's real fine - her '69!
My current Vette is the 90 ZR-1. The Z scratches my handling the twisties itch (don't even go there, C3'ers!), so that base is covered. Were the 69 mine, I'd have a hard time pulling that sweet little 350 outta there - she runs soooo nice - but I'd love to have an L88 clone in there, or maybe a rumpity 502...with chrome Hookers side pipes...yeah...
Bottom line...Don't compromise. Get what ya like. Plenty to like about about both motors.
P.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,387
Likes: 123
From: CA.
this is my 2nd BB. it never runs over 190 degrees. my last one didnt either. they both have stock radiators and AC. as far as power i know what the BB has but being that i never drove a corvette with a SB i cant compare. Nutsy.
Pro
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Elmhurst IL
Okay,
I am finally getting back into my favorite hobby of all time, and have several great sharks that I am looking into.
The big question is whether or not the 427/454 from either 1969 or 1970 is worth the premium that is put on the sticker price?
I have owned a 1968 327/300 small block that ran just fine, had some minor overheating issues that I had to keep an eye on. Live in Texas.
I wonder if the big block can even keep its temp down on a normal drive.
And is the power that much better?
Any comments appreciated.
I am finally getting back into my favorite hobby of all time, and have several great sharks that I am looking into.
The big question is whether or not the 427/454 from either 1969 or 1970 is worth the premium that is put on the sticker price?
I have owned a 1968 327/300 small block that ran just fine, had some minor overheating issues that I had to keep an eye on. Live in Texas.
I wonder if the big block can even keep its temp down on a normal drive.
And is the power that much better?
Any comments appreciated.
