I just got an 87 Camaro and it is going to be my first build. I got it with the engine and transmission pulled and on a stand. I’m wanting to get about 500hp at the wheel using pump gas. I don’t know where to start. What cam? What carb? What crank? Pistons? I have a 305 block and that’s it. Anything to help me start, PLEASE!!

 

It will take over 600hp at the crank through an automatic and upwards of 580 with a manual transmission. Naturally aspirated, you’re looking at spending roughly $8,500 - $10,000 intake to oil pan building a carbed, large cubed 1st Gen SBC with all good new parts to make that power on pump gas and be streetable.

Then there’s another $1000 or more on a transmission and another $1500-$2000 on a rear end that will hold up under any kind of abuse with that kind of power.

If you’re starting from scratch you might be able to get a low mileage LS3 and thrown in a cam and good exhaust system to get close. Or get an 5.3 and hang a turbo on it. A complete, with all the electronics, low mileage LS engine isn’t cheap in my neck of the woods and you’re still going need a good transmission and rear end to hold up.

Unless you are very patient and already have really good mechanical skills I’d think the old SBC build would be a little much for a first time build.

Same would apply for doing an LS swap but add having to be electronically savvy and willing to learn how to tune the thing.

Maybe you’re best bet might be trying to get what you have running, and running right, with the least amount of money possible. I’ve seen too many people that think they want a hot rod until they see the amount of money, work, and detail that’s needed to get one up and running at full potential.

 

What is your budget, and who is going to do the work?