If plain old restoration doesn't suit you, and you've got a hankering for the circle track or drag strip, it may be time for you to pick up a ZZ572. This big block engine is meant for serious muscle car maniacs, and proudly boasts 620 horsepower with 650 foot-pounds of torque--and that's just the wimpy model! The race version of the ZZ572 packs in an additional 100 ponies and 35 foot-pounds, as well as an amped up 12:1 compression ratio.

If you're not planning a moon shot, however, the small block variety will probably suffice. You'll still get more than enough power, as well as steel-forged craftsmanship, and the same GM-back quality guarantee. After all, your crate engine is sealed all the way up to the intake valves, so you know it's tamper-proof and fully loaded, with no missing or defective parts.

The Big Block ZZ572

Even though GM offers several turnkey versions of the 572, it's the big block model that's garnering the most attention, and rightly so. Based upon the Sportsman Gen VI block, the 572 offers up steel shotpeened rods, a 10-inch deck, and at least a 9.6:1 compression ratio. Yes, the race version packs a slightly bigger wallop, but it also comes with its commensurate price tag.

As with many GM crate engines, the 572 includes an HEI distributor built in, R42XLS spark plugs, and a mechanical secondary carburetor. This fully self-contained unit means you don't have to track down any additional engine accessories. Just unwrap your new big block and you're all set--provided, of course, you've got a muscle car in which to fit it.