360 vs 383

[Axels73Charger]

So I thought I should start this off strange because this stories strange. Over the last month or so I've talked to THREE different people about the pretty much the same thing. The first guy was a 73 dodge charger with a 383 and other stuff to make it look like a 71 R/T. 6 grand and the cars in michigan. The guy who was going to look at it for us bailed. So... The next is close in illinois talk to this guy with a 73 charger SE project with a 71 383  and well... There were only 4 pics and that ended up falling through also. This car was 1300. SO last dude and the guy we are calling (in process as i write) now has a 73 charger SE project but much more complete then last charger. It has a 68 383. BUT it was a 318 car. SO from what I know it doesnt have the Big Block parts that it needs for the engine. (rear end k member engine mounts etc) SO it MIGHT be cheaper to get a 360 right? This car is $1250 so I have even more cash to work with. Ive got about $2700. Do i sell the 383 and buy a 360 or what?

[NHCharger]

Good luck. This is an argument that will have no end. If you want or need torque, big block is your answer. I have a 318 in my 72. After countless input from many people, majority said BB, I bought a 360 short block bored 40 over. There are many parts currently on my 318 I can swap over to the 360 which played a key role in my decision. Also I already have a 71 Charger with a 383 so the thought of getting more than 12 mpg helps. When I'm done with the 360 it will have as much if not more HP than my 383,  but not as much torque.

[Ghoste]

As said, there will be countless and valid arguments to be made for either.  I have had smallblock and big block cars and each have their place for me.  For the B-bodies my personal preference are the big blocks.  But it's just an opinion.

[Highbanked Hauler]

Good luck. This is an argument that will have no end. If you want or need torque, big block is your answer. I have a 318 in my 72. After countless input from many people, majority said BB, I bought a 360 short block bored 40 over. There are many parts currently on my 318 I can swap over to the 360 which played a key role in my decision. Also I already have a 71 Charger with a 383 so the thought of getting more than 12 mpg helps. When I'm done with the 360 it will have as much if not more HP than my 383,  but not as much torque.

  I have had limited experience with a 360 and I hope your mileage will be better than mine was.

[Troy]

If you need to convert the car to a big block and you're on a budget then stick with a small block. Obviously you're not building a race car or hot street car (see "budget") so power isn't your primary concern. Get the car running and enjoy it. Once you can assemble all the conversion parts then change it over the winter or something.

Troy