Im going tomorrow to check out a 66 cuda with 273 LA v8. Im curious what should i be looking for to know if its going to be a major problem car? My reason for buying this car is to build up as a 1/8 mile drag car to show my friends american muscle can beat there Evo's and civics. If anyone can give me a list of stuff i should be looking for to know if the car is going to be an issue or not, I would be thankful.

 

well if its just going to be a drag car just make sure the frame and floor pans are not all rotted, what engine are you going to use? the 273 is no match for a video game (computer) car.unless you are loaded with . if i was going only for 1/8 mile id go with a 400 block ,383 forged crank just for the foundation.

 

I was thinking about dropping a 360 in it. Ive read the engine bay is pretty small what is the largest engine you can fit in with only minor modifications?

 

360 will drop right in, that would be a good engine. the 360 is externally balanced so you need a different torque converter than the 273 uses or you will rip the tranny apart.

 

is it 1/8th mile or 1/4 mile? if 1/8 id go 318 or 340 i know they are the same stroke as the 273 but the 273 dosent have the bore. but the 360 may be to much stroke for the 1/8 mile. if you go 360 use a dualplane and a narrow separation camshaft to get you revving in a hurry. forged pistions 150 shot of nos. come to think of it 360 should be okay.