I have a mechanic looking into swapping out the 2.8 on my 86 Camaro. I'm looking for an easy answer on the difference between these two engines. For the crates, they're about $1200 difference, but the turn key is only about $300 difference. I'm sure there is a detailed parts list out there somewhere, but thats seems like a pretty big difference. Is there a good reason for it?

 

"HO" = Vortec heads; intake ports higher up on the flange to give the port a straighter shot at the valve, most earlier intakes won't even COVER them let alone match to them, that's where their power comes from

ZZ4 = traditional design heads with intake ports in std location

Bottom end of the 2 motors is pretty much the same.

 

The one major drawback to the Vortecs in their stock form is that they can't take very much valve lift, which limits you to very mild cams unless you machine the valve guide seats on the heads, or buy some which were already done... in which case, you're really better off just buying the short block and heads separately, which really means it's not a crate engine install anymore.

 

HO - flat tappet cam, cast iron heads (and, as stated, limited lift capability), "special" Vortec intake manifold required.

ZZ4 - roller lifter cam, aluminum heads, "standard" intake manifold (comes with the engine).