Dyno runs are interesting and beneficial but I noticed sometimes the engine that makes the most peak power does not necessarily cross the finish line first. I like to use large displacement V8s as an example. Take the 440 six pack and the 455 Stage 1- vs the Chevy LS-6 454. The 440 and 455 had 10.5 to 1 compression and hydraulic cams. Both rated under 400hp. The LS-6 (A great engine BTW) was 11.0:1 comp with a stout solid lifter cam and rated at 450hp. Real world cars - NOT the prepped ringer type cars- all showed these 3 cars running neck and neck in the 1/4 mile. Approx 13.3 -13.9. Please Im talking non prepared ringers- rather typical of what your dad would have drove home from the dealer. I would have thought the LS-6 showroom stock with a competent driver would have been a 12.5-12.9 sec car with that 450 hp output. The mopar and the buick have high velocity cyl heads while the Chevy (along with 426 Hemi) have high volume cyl heads- which gives the edge when you start building for high RPM race power. All great observations for conversation. The LS-5 454 with its compression and cam specs more like the Mopar and Buick was rated at a similar 365 hp......but was CONSIDERABLY slower than the mopar and 455.
