[chip127]

I have a 72 monte with a 350, 350 trans and i think 308 rear. my dilemma is what would be a good cam and gear, or should i find a big block, 402 or 454? i want it to be fast but drive it on the street
thanks mike

[matts37chev]

there is no replacement for displacement, except $$$

[oldschool hero]

I vote Big Block, They just fit better in the "A" bodies. SB look just that small.

[Deuce]

Because a 454 was a available option in a 72 Monte Carlo, it would be a easy conversion ... if you have any swapping experience.



A 72 Monte Carlo is a big, heavy vehicle
and takes a good bit of torque to move it quickly. A 454 BBC ... has a lot of torque.

A better rear gear ratio ( 3.43/3.55/3.73 ) would also offer a big improvement.

[willowbilly3]

No brainer for me. Since it's your money I vote big block. I'm kind of partial to a 427 but a 502 crate engine would be sweeet in that Monte.

[vpd66]

I own a 71 Monte with a 350 4bl. It runs good. A buddy of mine has about 5-6 70-72 Montes with small and big blocks. I can tell you from driving them all, mine and his favorite is a 70 Monte with a bone stock 454. The thing runs has smooth has silk, has quiet dual exhaust and is the ultimate sleeper. Most people thing it is a old lady's car, but when you stand on it hang on. So my 2 cents is build a mild 454 with 2.73 or 3.08 gears. You'll be able to drive it anywhere and have tons of torque. Depending on how much you have to pay for a core 454 it will be cheaper to build for the amount of hp and torque you will get out of it.