It seems as if nothing has escaped the effects of today's economy-and our hobby is certainly no exception. General Motors has filed bankruptcy, and the Division that lends to the existence of this very publication, is no more. Major aftermarket manufacturers haven't gained immunity, either. Some of the largest names in the business have filed for bankruptcy or closed their doors altogether. As bleak as it seems, it's simply a fact of the world we live in today.
The present State of the Union shouldn't prevent you from having fun with your Pontiac, however. While some hobbyists are satisfied with their ride's current performance level, there are many others who maintain the continuous hunt for added go, but not all have the available funds to create a large-cube, high-output Poncho at this time.
Sure, you might have to shelf the thought of more exotic aftermarket components like aluminum cylinder heads, roller camshafts, and high-voltage ignition systems for the time being, but there are other ways to produce a potent combination without breaking the bank.
While 500hp budget builds aren't totally unreasonable, a range of 375 to 450 is far more realistic when planning a street-friendly 400 or 455 build-up. Follow along as we share 14 ways to take an affordable approach toward performance. It's sure to provide you with plenty of fun on the cheap, while weathering the economic storm!
1. 400 For Fun
Not every Pontiac needs to be powered by a 455 to go fast. While added displacement can certainly improve street manners and increase low-speed performance, the Division's 400ci engine was its mainstay for more than a decade. Though most 400s were used in conventional applications, and not necessarily intended for maximum performance, there are, undoubtedly, a large number of unmolested cores available today.
Some will argue that the mid-to-late '70s 400 blocks are less rigid and questionable for use in performance applications, and while that may be true in extreme conditions, virtually any '67-'78 400ci will make a sound foundation for a moderate-performance street build like the ones we're discussing here.
If you don't already own a 400ci, it's quite likely that a small assortment of potential candidates is hiding in your locale, just waiting to be discovered. We suggest visiting local salvage yards and/or perusing the online classifieds of nearby towns. Spreading word of your search at local car shows or swap meets might also keep others on the lookout for you.
Maintaining a sharp eye and following all potential leads should easily net you a number of affordable 400s within driving distance, and, if you're lucky, the one you choose will be equipped with usable cylinder heads, intake manifold, distributor, and carburetor.
Don't expect to pay more than a few hundred bucks for a complete rebuilder 400, and less if said components are missing. We shelled out $100 for this particular '74 model year 400 as it sits. It ran great before the owner removed the heads.