Looking for some G Body info.

[gil4x4]

Hi,
I am currently looking at getting a GBody car like a monte carlo or olds cutlass. One thing I have noticed is that most come with the 305 chevy small block. What is the potential of this engine? My goal would be about 320 rwhp N/A. I currently have a 5.0 mustang that has made me sick lately with all it's problems and inability to pass emissions. Any info or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Keith

 

[BrownGP83]

Quite frankly, the 305 is junk. Its a great car to start with because a 350 [or any other SBC] pretty much installs itself. The 305 might make 320 horse at the flywheel on a good day. It is a small bore engine that might have been factory rated at 200 hp max[ i think?] Most were in the 140-150 hp range. If you are looking for 320 rwhp, don't waste $$ on a 305. Install a 350 or larger SBC and go from there. If you look around enough, you should be able to find plenty of G-bodies with bigger engines already swapped in. Also check the trans in the 305 cars. If it is a Metric 200 it is junk and cannot handle any power. The olds Cutlasses likely have a 307 engine. I can't help you there, but someone else will. I am not sure about the emmisions stuff, i've never had to deal with that. hope this helps you.

 

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

None of the common G Body V8's are any good for performance, which is why the majority of these cars get swaps when built up by an enthusiast. Better engines in their families bolt in place of them easily enough using the same accessories, so it's not that hard.

 

[v8power]

just to open a can of worms..........BIG BLOCK IT!

 

[dan2286]

Just to make your life easier in the long run, if you want it to be Chevy powered, get a Chevy powered G body. If you want it Olds powered, get an Olds powered G body. I think this also applies with Buicks and their 6 cylinder.

 

[bowtie81]

ive got a car craft mag where they did a 305 into a 331 and it made 375 at the flywheel and it gave the parts list for it. but i wouldnt do that its a waste of money go with a 350 and stroke it into a 396