Before I get started, keep in mind this will be a daily driver and going on a 500 mile trip 2 times a year (every year until I can afford a beater). Should I build a 383? Now, the tech part:

1. 6.0"/5.7" rods? I've read 6" for high RPM, but what for durability/streetability?

2. How severe will the MPG drop be?

3. What driveability differences will there be when compared to a 350?

4. Any other helpful insight? Basically just will the engine run all the time? For thousands of trouble-free miles? And I'm real worried about the 500 mile trips (gotta go see Mom in PA) I go on every Christmas/Summer. What do you guys think?

 

Either will have as good durability as the other.

For a steeet car a 5.7" rod is really all you need.

Spend your money on good cylinder heads, first.
There is a lot more power in that than a slightly longer rod length.

Power is in the cylinder heads.

A 350 with good heads for X amount of $$$ will make much more power and torque than a 383 with stock or inferior heads for the same money.

Than if after that the budget allows, go for the 383 stroker it will make more power and torque than a 350
with the same induction system and heads on it.

 

Cool, thanks. The durability factor is the main reason I was undecided.

Running a ported TPI setup, 24lb injectors and a good tune, what kind of MPG can I expect if I drive it conservatively?

 

Conservative MPG, at best.

 

Think she could knock down 16? City that is. Maybe 20 highway? Or am I shooting way too high lol. Not much of a concern but just curious.

 

16 average shouldn't be a problem with a 383 if tuned properly. If you drive it nice you could get even better than that... I was getting an average (as in overall, city, highway, WOT, etc.) of 15-16 with my 355 towards the end and lets just say it wasn't exactly idling down the road .....ever ....... Probably could have logged an easy 18-19 average with some softer pedal action . That is with Highway Mode operational in the PROM however. With HM you can get much better than 20 highway....

 

If you're worried about it making long trips, I'd get a good solid radiator. Half the time that's the main problem-overheating.

 

Cool, now the I know mileage/durability won't be a big issue, I've made up my mind Now...Cast or Forged? Initially I was going to go forged but to speed up the project a little bit, maybe cast? I won't be spraying it and won't be running a blower/turbo. I'm only looking for 350-400 rwhp. Think cast will last a good 20,000+ miles?

 

Yes should last the life of the motor. And then some.
Only foolish engine abuse will cause you a disappointing
early failure.
No NOS over 150/175 HP and always use good high octane gas. They are strong and durable but not bulletproof.

Get some good Hypereutectic alloy cast pistons like
Federal Moguls or UEM KB signuture series.
Lots of "Dcup" piston chioces there.
Pay close attention to the recommended ring clearances.
Bigger is better.

 

If you're not using forced induction or nitrous, then cast will be more than good enough.....