I can remember when a 454 was a big block, and 500 cubes was a “mountain motor.” But with today’s head, valve spring & lifter technology there appears to be no end in sight!
SONNY LEONARD TOPS 1000 CID WITH NEW ENGINE – CompetitionPlus.com – January 26, 2011
“…This engine is capable of running 8,000 rpm which was unheard of five years ago,” Leonard explained. ‘The door is open here. It might not be as efficient but it will go quicker. If it was weight per cubic inch, this wouldn’t be the way to go…”
About Roger
Driver of our '57 Chev from 1972-2019, Vietnam veteran (A Troop, 3/17th Air Cavalry Scout helicopter Line Chief and later Cobra Periodic Inspection team leader), retired ASE rated automotive mechanic. Roger became involved in drag racing during his high school days and after his stint in the Army ran E & F/MP [Modified Production] here in Division 6 before switching to bracket racing when the '57 became obsolete for class racing. He often raced at Puyallup, Kent-Pacific Raceways, Bremerton, Portland & the original Mission, B.C. track.
How they make these huge motors live at 8,000 RPMs is beyond me! Probably not for long considering the reciprocating weight & stroke.
Personally, I’m a small-block guy. But after Chris and I built the 488 for his tow truck I have to admit these big engines put out gobs of torque!