Big horsepower 318 builds
The videos I'm referring to are NA.
In keeping with the NA….
I think it's down to a number of things, not just one big thing.
My opinion, in descending order of importance:
1. Heads. The LS heads are just newer technology. Comparing cutting edge 2000s tech (ported AFR LS cathedral heads) to even the best available street heads for a sbm, unfortunately, there's really no contest.
Let’s compare flow numbers and port velocities.
2. Intake. That LS3 style intake is apparently VERY good, and seems to work VERY well over a broad rpm range.
This is a camshaft related issue, not cylinder head.
It is true. The better the cylinder head the better the power. A higher flowing cylinder head over stock allows more power and rpm.
While the OEM - LA head gets buried deep on this front, what do we have to replace it and compete? I can name 4 off the bat.
3. Cams. The LS cams seem to be pretty aggressive, i.e. for a given duration they have quite a lot of lift.
But yet! There a roller compared to a standard solid which is an edge. Mostly since MoPar guys cry at the thought of a roller cam.
The LS has a lifter bore size of?????
4. Valvetrain geometry. LS platform addresses valvetrain geometry issues that older engines dealt with. (I'm assuming this ties in with point 3 above)
So in the past when our old time racers spun 8500/9500, it was black magic that we can’t reproduce suddenly?
Just wondering.
5. The little things. I'm making some assumptions here, but I'm thinking things like better reciprocating assembly geometry, optimized ring packages, better machining tolerances, more rigid blocks, etc. Maybe these things aren't big but they probably add another 10-20hp to the mix.
The modern blocks are better OOTB then ours from yesteryear.
And that’s where it stops.
There architecture is better and the advancements after 40/50/60 years is apparent. But let’s dumb down a modern engine and cripple it with a wet flow intake and 4150 carb, stick it with a SFT and see where and what we get.
No one owning these engines would ever do that and it’s a crying shame any old time engine guy has major fears and sudden cash flow problems in meeting what the others were born with. I get that. A roller cam, F.I. & OD transmissions are expensive and prohibitive to 99% here.
But if your going to compare engines, think before you speak on who has what in any real advantage and what can not be modified and equaled.
Hey! Didn’t Brett Miller make a 1,000hp NA SBM?
Currently being raced by the way.
YeAaaaaaaa, well, there’s that now huh?
I tell ya it’s a danm shame I don’t play lotto…..