My 350 was rebuilt at least 10 years ago. I've treated it rough and now it's time to rebuild or replace it. I want to go with a lot more power though. I'm looking a two different options now. 1.Rebuild or build another 350 with beefed up internals so that it can handle an carbed ati procharger system (possibly with an intercooler) or 2. Buy a Motown 415 small block crate engine (460hp, 490torque, 9.5:1 compression). Would I get better gas mileage with the supercharged option? The engine would be less c.i. and i am under the impression that the driver's throttle control and rpm's affect boost and fuel consumption(so if i drive it easy i'd get better gas mileage?). Please tell me which you think would be best or if you have any better ideas. I want to stick with a small block, i want lots of power, reliability, and gas mileage is a concern too.

 

If you're going to run a carb, I would say go with the 415 for simplicity. If you get bored with 460 hp and 490 ftlbs, you can always add a 150 shot onto it.

Also, don't those engines come with a 2 year warranty? It's been a while since I drooled over one, so I don't remember if they do or not.

 

I agree on the simplicity thing, especially with a carb. I wouldn't settle for 460 hp out of a big cube small block, though. You can get 550 hp out of a 415 cid and keep it relatively streetable with todays camshaft and cylinder head technology.