Is a 396 worth the extra expense and shorter life or does a 383 turn out to be a better overall value in terms of cost, drivability, etc.?

 

For 3.3% more displacement, and maybe 3% more hp and torque (eg. 446 vs 433hp) the cost is probably greater than 3.3% more.

Other than 3.3% more piston speed, I don't see that much of a durability or drivability issue.

Value, especially in the budget (~450 rwhp) range is all 383, IMO.
At the big-buck end, costs would be about the same.

 

But you could say you have a 396.....that is worth something!!!

 

You ever see that movie: "White men Can't Jump"?

Wooody's character at one point told Wesley's character that he would rather look stupid and win than look cool and lose.

 

Why couldn't you lie and say you had a 396? Only your engine builder would know for sure.

On second thought, guys don't fib about what they have under the hood, right?

 

Wow....how bout you guys rip me apart for that post.....I said it to lighten things up and get pounced on.

 

No intention to rip you, DelSoto. I thought you meant "do the 396 for bragging rights". It's just cheaper to lie about engine size. Hey, engine size isn't the only thing guys lie about...... Gas mileage and horsepower come to mind first. Also maybe the number of "wins".

 

I was trying to put a little sarchasm in there. But thanks OldSStroker.