i recently bought a 1969 Cutlass "S" Convertible, and i am currently rebuilding the engine. The previous owner had it since 1973 and said it is stock as far as he knows. I am debating on whether to keep it stock, or try to get more horse power out of it. After just a standard overhaul of the engine to get it in good running condition, i will have about $1000 left that i am willing to spend on it.
so, the question is, bone stock, or a throw on some bolt ons like headers and dual exhaust.
how much value will i lose in the long run by not going stock. also, any ideas for cheap ways to add horsepower?
thanks!

 

There's an old saying: "Speed costs money. How fast do you want to go?"

The cheapest way to add HP to your car is to find a good running 455 and drop it in. That also answers your first question.

 

Well you can mod the hell outta it, but for piece of mind, keep your stock parts so they can be swapped back on. It's not too hard to swap the parts back onto a motor that old

 

Unless you plan on putting LOTS of money into the car and then selling it (hopefully for a profit, maybe not) I suggest doing what you wish to it even if that means non-stock. I am not a fan of full concours restorations but maybe that's because I am poor.

 

If you have the storage space I'd pull the 350 and stick it in the corner under a workbench. I really like the 455, but just in case someday comes when a numbers matching Cutlass is worth more than one with a 455 you or the person who buys the car can put it back. Since my crystal ball isn't clear I like to keep my options open for the future My 2 cents. John

 

ok, well since i have already got all the parts and done 90% of the overhaul ot my current 350, i will throw that thing back in for now. If i am content with the power it has, ill leave it in. otherwise ill start looking for a 455

thanks for the help!!

 

I would build your 350 with some good aftermarket parts and drive the bejeezus out of it!

350s are just as good as 455s. Plus they can turn alot faster.

 

I agree. A fullblown resto would make it into a trailer queen you can't drive, and would cost a fortune.

 

If you're only going to have $1000 left after the stock rebuild, put a performer intake and have somebody who knows quadrajets rebuild and work some magic on yours, set of headers and a good dual exhaust system with x pipe and you should notice a decent power difference. Best part is, all the parts you replaced can bolt back up to be original again!