best muscle for price?

[lastburnout]

Im looking to build something to make me grin to the revv. price is a definate issue, 10k at the most after completed. But I am having a hard time deciding what to go with considering the factors of price, insurance, reliability, and style. I like the specs of the 383 stroker but im new to carburated engines.

ANY help to point me in the right direction for the car(not truck), motor, and any other aftermarked will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
Tanner

[MrPbody]

A well built 383 is a good one. A "cheap" one is a disaster waiting to happen. The forged crankshafts are excellent. The ONLY "cast" crank we'll use for one is a modified FACTORY 400 crank. The Chinese castings have shown to be far too flexible and not strong enough for the pounding of a performance engine.

What car are you planning? It makes a difference...

Jim

[lastburnout]

the el camino seems to be a decent choice. I know it isnt conidered a "Muscle car" but the late 80's camaro is an eye catcher too... any info?

[MrPbody]

Depends on what year the El Camino is. The mid '70s models are junk with a capital "J"... Very poor quality of construction for GM A-bodies from '73 through '77. The G-body version is cool. Prices are climbing. Pre-'73 models are already WAY up there in price, unless complete rust-buckets.

3rd gen F-bodies are very "aero", and can be made to handle VERY well. Their quality is also in question, as they become "rattle traps" at a very young age. Suspension is tough, though. Rear axle strength is another sore spot. Nothing that can't be overcome, to make it a real performer.

For your money, the best (IMO) car to use for a streeter would be a G-body, '78-'87. Monte Carlos are plentiful and except the SS models, cheap. These cars (G-bodies) have a real parimeter frame and good supension. TONS of performance parts are available for the chaissis, and the cars handle quite well, even under serious power. Most of the Montes had small blocks in them, making the swap a bit easier. Some were the 3.8 Buick. Earlier version had the 229 Chevy (also designated "3.8"). Regal, Cutlass, Grand Prix are also prime candidates. As a "Pontiac bigot", I would prefer you used something other than Grand Prix, but hey, it's a big wolrd... If Jim Wangers can have "Ponte Carlo" ('87 SS with a 455 Pontiac in it, runs high 7s in the 1/4 mile), I don't see why you couldn't use the GP. (:-

Remember through it all, THIS IS A HOBBY! Have fun!

Jim

[lastburnout]

alright, I'll store that in my head... any other ideas no matter age?

[Motor City Threads]

You can pick up a 74 - 81 Trans Am in resonable shape for under $2000.00

[79transam92]

a late 70s 2nd Gen T/A in drivable condition for 5,000 or less, my 79(drivable), 1200 dollars, engine bays will fit a 455

[79transam92]

Originally Posted by Motor City Threads

You can pick up a 74 - 81 Trans Am in resonable shape for under $2000.00

2500 to 5000 for reasonable, drivable though, I define reasonable as no rust and a complete interior and drivetrain, hard to find for less than 2000, and a 74? more than 2000 for sure, 455 engine... Trans Am will go up in price, very undervalued now

['97ventureowner]

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