1970 396 motor in SS El Camino
Asked by Smokin396 Sep 03, 2016 at 05:25 PM about the 1970 Chevrolet El Camino Super Sport
Question type: General
I understand the 3 hp ratings for 1970 396. 325hp,
350hp, and 375.hp. I also read there was a 360 hp.
for the 396. Was that a corvette rating or a
misconception. . Thank you.
4 Answers
It's my understanding that a lot of "horsepower ratings" in 60s and 70s were VERY inflated... And, if you really want a safer and more reliable engine, pick a car from 2005 and newer.... you'll be better off..
Basically all the motors and ratings from that era weren't terribly consistent or reliable, however the internals of the motor and how it was set up will give a good idea of what the motor will actually produce, do you have any more info on the exact motor?
Not at this moment. Still doing some research. Pulled more numbers off head and block. Just bought car a month ago. Thank you very much for the info, 533k3r. Smokin 396
Just read elsewhere that the L78 396cid in the el camino rated at 375hp was the same motor in the Corvette rated at 425hp, and this site dyno tested a like motor at 450hp.
