68-71 340's had 10.5 compression, forged cranks, 2.02 intakes.
72 340 had 8.5 compression, forged cranks, 1.88 intakes.
73 340 had 8.5 compression, cast cranks, 1.88 intakes.
Yes, some engines run better than others. Some early built cars may have gotten the last year's leftover engine with the higher compression... It can happen...
But spec wise, the 68-71 340 was the best years for stock engines... Those are the ones that set the reputation for the 340....
