i see a lot of 383's when it comes to a bottom end rebuild... how come the 383's are more popular than the 396's?... hows that old saying go? theres no replacement for displacement

 

I used that handy little fellow called the "search" button and lookie what I found!
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...hlight=383+396

... and that's from merely copying/pasting your title.
Bunches of info/experience and opinions on this subject. Use at your disgretion.

 

Short answer is that the extra 13 cubes = cubic $$$$.

383 is a better VALUE.

 

A good forged 396 rotating assembly is going to cost the same as a 383 or 355. The main advantage to a 383 over a 396 is the availability of large varaity of parts from all manufacturers

 

No, the 396 will cost more. What you have to realize is that the rotating assembly cost is not the only cost. You have machine shop costs for clearancing, then you need a smaller base circle camshaft, then you sometimes need different, more stroker clearanced rods, then you need different rod bolts that will clear the cam and block rails. These are just a few examples of the things that often aren't thought about.

 

Ye Olde Search Function is, indeed, your friend! The 383 is probably at the "sweet spot" in terms of cost/hp potential.

Rich

 

Which equates to lower cost.