I agree that the only reason to run a 283 today would be to keep a car traditional or original. No question they are great engines, but the newer 350's, especially Vortecs, are head and shoulders above them in most respects. Parts are also more readily available and in some cases cheaper for the 350 vs 283. You also pick up roller cam technology that is a big plus with the crappy oil we have today.

I've had 283's in a few cars over the years and loved them, but they were very anemic compared to today's modern sb versions. If it were me, I would look for a late model with vortec heads and either rebuild that one or buy a crate motor. It is very hard to rebuild an engine (properly) for the money a brand new crate goes for...........and you don't have to get your hands dirty at all.


Don