I am purchasing a 87 350 TPI with 80k on it. Body looks in perfect condition other than the usuall chipping on the nose. I was just wondering what to look out for. Also I had a 88 305 TPI. Gone to the gods now.... How much of a difference in power am I really going to feel in the 350 TPI?

 

Well not too much. Not stock anyway. Depending on if your 1987 TPI car had something other than the peanut cam.

Anyway the 350 has more potential to be a real performer modded. The 305's a good solid engine that lasts along time and performs decent.

Really though my advice is to buy a 350 car. I am not sure of the actual difference but theres a definate TQ increase.

 

88 305TPI with an automatic has 195HP and 295TQ. With the 5spd, its 220HP and 290TQ (same cam as the 350TPI).

87 350TPI with an automatic has 225HP and 330TQ.

If your 305 was a 5spd, you won't notice too much of a difference at all (well, there will definitely be more torque, but it won't be much faster at all). If your 305 was an automatic, the 350 will be a lot faster, and should be noticeably harder-pulling.

 

I have to disagree. The 350 will be quite a bit faster then any stock 305. Torque is what makes your car move. I don't think a 350 TPI ever came with a peanut cam either.

 

You have to factor in gearing as well.