[curtis73]

I have to disagree with three engines: The 403 Olds, the Caddy exclusion, and the "all 307" engines.

You probably listed the 403 because of its windowed main webs. They aren't as weak as you think, and that monster bore and short stroke make one heck of an engine.

Just because 307s were all wimpy from the factory doesn't mean they can't perform. They are not as hindered by the small bores like the 305. They have enough extra room that it at least unshrouds the valves enough to get decent breathing. Not optimal, but the potential is there.

For that same reason, why didn't you put the 305 on that page? Terrible bore/stroke ratio, poor rod/stroke ratio, and tiny bores that shroud valves.

And why not a 472 Caddy? Almost as much displacement as a 500 and they only differ by stroke. Rock solid blocks, high nickel casting, excellent aftermarket support, and a very bulletproof engine.

Although I agree with the 350 diesel junk, they make killer starting points for a big bore gas engine. They have incredibly thick cylinder walls, thicker decks, more meat in the main webs, and just like their gas cousins switched to roller cams in later years. Not to mention they can be bought for a song if not free.

No offense, but it seems like you're basing your opinions of these engines based on their factory ratings. All of them have potential, even the 350 diesel. I've seen one in an S10 getting 14 psi from a turbo turning 13s all day and getting 30 mpg.

Take a look at their potentials and I think you'll see a whole different animal.