Editing How to choose a SBC engine

Engine choices can be hard when there are so many to choose from.. The choice of a SBC can be an easy one if you want a cheap reliable engine that can produce a good amount of horsepower.. As a SBC can come in a size as small as 262 CI all the way to well over 400 CI in custom built engines, they all have there purpose. you wouldn't put a 262 in a truck, but you may put it in a Monza if you want MPG



* 262 CI: used from 1978-1981, low hp, smog engine designed for reliability with high MPG
* 265 CI: Chevrolet's first SBC. Far surpassed in performance by the 283 and 327 engines that came shortly after.. consider this one for restorations only
* 267 CI: used from 1978-1981, low hp, smog engine designed for reliability with high MPG.
* 283 CI: Chevy's first engine to produce 1hp per CI. provides hp in the higher RPM, good for light cars and higher RPM
* 301 CI:  This is a .125 overbore 283, it only works on some blocks and is no longer recommended practice 
* 302 CI: The Z/28 engine used for a short while. Great for high RPM hp and T/A racing... if you can find one 
* 305 CI: Decent engine, not good for performance, but decent enough for a lightweight or the vehicles they came in
* 327 CI: Good engine for higher RPM hp, can be built for high RPM racing and such.. strong runners
* 350 CI: America's most popular SBC.. not much need be said, they fit most budgets and expectations, great all around engine
* 355 CI: .030 over 350
* 358 CI: .060 over 350
* 383 CI: 350 block with a 3.75 crank.. Considered when low end hp or torque are necessary.. requires external balancing
* 400 CI: Requires external balancing, decent engine all togther.