383 vs 400

It's almost like a 340/360 debate only in the form of a big block :lol:

I have to stand up for the lowly 400. Yes, back in the day and in stock form, the 383 was a damn good engine. If you a rebuilding anyways, there is nothing wrong with a 400 whatsoever. Yes the compression is low but you can change all that. I'd probably choose the 400. You can do the 451 thing which is a proven power combo. If you know what to do with a 400, it is not needed.

I have one in a '65 Chrysler Newport which is my driver. It's an 80k mile 400 from a '73 Dodge Charger. It' has a.470 lift Hughes cam with a smallish duration (like 214 at .050) along with matched valve springs, 452 heads, double roller timing chain, Edelbrock performer 383 and a modified 600cfm Holley vacumn secondary carb. It even has sh**y single exhaust until I can afford a dual exhaust system for it.

I did not expect much when I got it but I think I am a believer now. This damn thing will shred the back tire off so basically this engine in an a body would be :headbang: Car is to nice so I'm not doing it. Love my boat!

I have the cam card here somewhere if anyone want's to know the specs.

My 400 is rather fun but of course YMMV...