I've been looking into dropping a new motor in my car and am having a hard time deciding between another 302 or going with a 351W. I can get a 351W for $100 or a 302 for $75, so I have both options, but I want to know the pros and cons of each. I would like to make decent power (320-350hp) so the 351W would be much easier to get that power out of, correct? Also, how hard is it to swap in a 351W? I'd eventually like to swap out my 4-speed for a 5-speed so would I have to do anything different to hook it up to a 351W rather than a 302? Thanks in advance guys.

P.S. I would also really appreciate it if you guys could give me an idea of what parts I'll need get the power I'm looking for. Thanks.

 

Although it will be a little bit tighter in the engine compartment, the 351W will fit.

By installing aftermarket heads/cam/headers/intake/carb onto astroked 351W, whether to 408 or 427, should get you where you want to be.

Dave

 

Can you fit a 351?

The 351 will have the power come on a lot sooner when upgrading, they can both be adapted to fit any of your needs. Although if you took the same setup the 351 should be dumping a little more hp and a good amount more torque.

The 302 will have a larger rpm rang than the 351, allowing it rev higher. Depending on your weight the 351's torque will be needed to keep efficiency. And if you are curious with gas mileage depending on your weight the 351 can be better on mpg (depending on your foot :-)).

351 can be used as a stronger start to a future, modified engine. You statistically can go farther with a 351 of course then a 302.

IMO if you can, 351 hands down....but hey I might be bias

 

Thanks for your opinions so far guys, as for how heavy my foot is David, well let's just say that it's known to the state of California to cause cancer.

 

I could be wrong here but isnt the 351 2 inches wider? So accommodate for that, if I remember correctly on that number.

 

351W will fit fine. I'd go with that with your slightly larger and heavier car, just make sure the rest of your drivetrain is built to hold the torque that thing will be making.

 

If you are still running a z-bar for your clutch, make sure which ever block you are going to buy has that hole in the side that is tapped for the z-bar pivot ball.

 

351 if you want to make power. For up to around 400hp a 302 is fine. A 302 stroker can make more, and a 351 can make even more. The question is do you want something that's fast and fun to drive, or are you looking to built for maximum performance?

 

hey guys, been a while since I've dropped in but i love this section to stay away for too long.

many a smart men have said this and I will say it now: There's no replacement for displacement. Go for the 351W. Get a good clutch and you'll even be able to make a T5 fit behind it. Just might want to upgrade to a 9in rear...and disc brakes,lol.

 

FYI, I JUST dropped in my 351W into my car today. I have a 67. It bolted right up to my 3spd and right up to the old engine mounts. Piece of cake. It's late so I can't put any pictures up right now. Hopefully here in a few days I can wrap everything up. I had a 302 and wasn't happy with the power so I opted for the 351. I doubt I'm not going to be happy. OHHH and I just got back into town from picking up my 9inch rear end

Go with the 351... just my two cents