Usable power for the street?

ValleyRat said
Hey everyone, first off, I really appreciate all the feedback I get on this forum. I really value your opinions, so I’m coming back with another question…

What do you consider good steerable power?

I currently have a 273 Charger motor (1967) and an 833 4 speed trans for my ‘67 Barracuda (unknown rear gears).

I’m not looking to race the car, but do want to be able to break the tires loose easily from time to time and launch hard. I keep hearing people tell me “get a 360 if you want power.” From my reading, a mildly built 360 can make about 350 hp (cam, intake, headers).

Is that getting to be overkill for a street car?

I’ve never been in a car with a 273 Commando, so I don’t have any point of reference aside from what I’ve read. I know the common adage is always “more is better,” but I’m curious to hear what your thoughts are.

In my area, I can buy a running 5.9 magnum for around $700, after dressing it with a carbureted intake, cam, headers, and new carb, I’m nearing $2300… while I can have my 273 together for around $1700 (boring cylinders, a new cam/lifters).

Thanks again everyone, you guys really help me with these decisions.

Commando/Charger 273's are very nice all around engines. You have one. You should consider what you will need to get your 67 Barracuda in fun mode. If you have a /6 barracuda, what rear do you have, what brakes are you running, torsion bars, sway bar, transmission, radiator? My brother and I grew up with 273 Barracudas and put about 450,000 miles on them. He still has his and I'm on my second due to accidents. 300 hp is plenty for an every day street car, even less with a 4 speed and a high winder. Racers are different. You can get by with a 7 1/4 rear with a 273, but not a 360. Some 833's are built lighter for 273's and slant sixes, what do you have?