Ok I've bought a 1985 Camaro that the previous owner was turning into a drag car. Love the idea but I have a small son and can't go full on racer. The 305 in it has to go. I want power but nothing too crazy, what do you guys think of a 383 stoker? I know a big block may not be the best idea although I'd love one. Some one actually suggested that I shoehorn a 427?? I don't think thats a good idea and would require too much work. There is also the beginnings of where a cage was going in, but Never finished. Ideas are welcome please.
Thanks

 

Street, street strip or full race. Can't make many suggestions without knowing exactly what you plan to do with it and what's been already done.

If too many modifications and gutting has been done, it can be difficult to make it street legal or safe. For a track only car the sky is the limit. You don't need a sub 9 second car to go out and have fun. A good small block can keep you in the 11-12 second range to keep requirements and costs low although you may still need to tow or trailer it to the track. I've seen 14 second race cars towed to the track.

Dropping in a big block is no different from a tiny 396 or a monster 632.

The thing about drag racing is speed costs money. Everything and anything can go drag racing and when you're bracket racing, speed means nothing. Everyone has an equal chance of winning no matter if you have an 8, 12 or 17 second vehicle. It's fun to go fast but you don't need to go fast to win races. Race within your budget.

 

I'm leaning towards a street machine of the late 70s-80s type. Nothing has been removed from the car but the AC system, everything else is intact. I've decided to go with a 383 and I'll do some other mods and a flashy paint job. Thanks for your input.

 

If built properly, there's no reason you can't make a 383 push a street car into the 11-12 second range. Keep it slower than 11.50 and you don't even need a roll bar. Expect it to at least be in the 12-13 second range. It all depends on what you do to the car.

 

Street driven vehicles with cages are dangerous.In the event of a accident on the street and no helmet is high risk.Let alone kids riding in the car without protection.

The question of which engine is a whole another thread.But no matter what engine,a pre-planned well thought out matched build is key.

 

Thanks for all the input guys.