I have decided instead of a crate engine, I'm going to build an engine myself. I have decided to pick up either a L98 or a L31 for the project. Can anyone speak for the pros and cons of a comparison of the two long blocks? I have searched the boards MANY times and have read the Vortec heads are far better than the stock L98 heads. That said, is it such a great difference to offset the $500(shipped) intake base from Scroggins Dickey? Also, are the heads THAT much better than a set of Corvette aluminum L98 heads? I guess my questions is, if you were to build one of these two engines, which would you choose and why? After thinking it over, I have come to the conclusion I'm not after a set HP number but I'd like to be LOW 13's and maybe one day crack 12.99 or better. My budget for this little project will be $3000. That includes aftermarket runners, ported plenum, headers and 52mm throttle body. Also with the budget, it's VERY flexible. I just thought I would set a budget and try to stick with it I'm not looking to build a all out race engine just something I can enjoy on nice summer day drives

Thanks in advance

 

I like the L98 if for no other reason than there are a lot more options available.

I've also heard the the SD TPI intake comes with a bunch of headaches. Lots of "massaging" required to make things fit correctly, and you're gonna have to port it because IIRC, it doesn't flow much better than a stock manifold.