which engine would you use?

[michael6372]

I am thinking of swapping out the motor in my 63 nova s.s. convertible. It currently has a 454. I do not know which engine to choose. Should I stay with a big block like a 502 or 572 or should I switch to a ls-2/ ls-7 motor. I am running an automatic with overdrive trans. The car will not be road raced. It is a street machine/ cruiser/ show car. I want alot of power with exceptional reliability and the WOW factor when the hood is opened. What do you think the ultimate engine for my car would be? Thanks for the input!!

[Musclecar]

I think the "WOW" factor would be the 572 :unibrow:

[Bandit]

Power and WOW factor--I vote for the big block...

[Vegas69]

I still like a big block myself. Those new LSX motors just don't look muscular.

[Mkelcy]

If performance is the primary criterion, LSx engine. A properly configured LSx will simply do everything an engine is intended to do better than any BBC/SBC. That's the sad truth.

[deuce_454]

hmm, tough one.. a big block is the easy choice.. it will simply bolt in in a weekend, everything fits, exhaust, accessories, hoses etc. and if you are willing to spend the money on a 572, or somthing like a sonnys 555 it will outperform a naturally aspirated LSx motor hands down.. but its not cheap, and for what you are saying you need.. id say it was almost overkill..

an LSx will just run forever, but you ill have to change everything, or spend some big money to buy everything to just bolt it in.. and it will still not look as good as a BBC..

so my advice would be to buy a 572 or sonnys 555, and if you want wow.. well nothing beats a kinsler stack injected big block... except perhaps a twin turbo rat.. but thats another story:P