Chevrolet Engine

When it comes to the Chevrolet engine, it seems there are nearly as many models as there are Chevys themselves. There are big-block and small-block, V6s and V8s, 150-horsepower chuggers and 400-horsepower demons. When shopping around for engine parts, it's critical to weigh each of these factors.

Are you looking to recreate a classic Chevy like the '67 Stingray or '65 Chevelle? You may be happy with parts that simply keep your old Chevy running, regardless of its performance. On the other hand, you may use your old Impala as your primary means of transportation, in which case you'll want to be a bit more discriminating in what you install.

The Small-Block Chevrolet Engine

Small-block Chevrolet engines marked a decisive break from the the stout "big blocks" found in earlier muscle cars. Nowadays, most consumers are more concerned with getting from point A to point B than with performance. As a result, manufacturing has leaned toward the small block, which not only gets better gas mileage, but is more eco-friendly.

That doesn't mean there's no place for the big block, though. Engines with 454 cubic inches and 450 horsepower are still available from many parts vendors. Look online, and you're sure to find at least one or two in your neighborhood who can put that growl that you long for back under your hood.