My first car was a '65 Mustang coupe, and after all these years of it sitting in the garage, I would like to get it back on the road. It has a very tired 289 engine that I would like to either rebuild or replace. My goal is to have an engine with power when I need it, to have a little cam, and be able to drive it up and down the highway when I want to - not like stock but a few steps above stock. My problem is this: Should I stay with a 289 or try and find a 302 to rebuild? I have been told that 302 parts are easier to find.(I would like to find a 302 assembled shortblock, and outfit with Edelbrock Performer Series matched components (cam, intake, heads ect.)) Any advice?

 

Is the '65 Mustang in good shape? If you want to retain it's classic car worth, then you should stick with a 289 & rebuild it. If the motor is fried and/or you are not interested in maintaining the car's original status, then yea a 302 is more plentiful for parts

 

Wow...a 65 that would be a great one to have, check out the folks in the classic's section for additional feedback on your question. Good luck...

 

stick with the 289 for sure either are simple to build and new parts are easy to come across