MK5 Alabama Build

I thought I would start a build thread while I wait for the car to arrive. My name is Greg and I live in Alabama. Spec's below.

Ordered Mk5 kit on March 8, 2026
Ordered processed on March 18, 2026
Received Invoice Email on March 19, 2026, with projected build date of April 25, 2026
Confirmed build configuration on April 6, 2026
Wired payment on April 7, 2026

Kit as configured:
Complete Kit Mk5
Left Hand Drive
SB 351w
TKX transmission
Hydraulic Clutch
351 Headers
Steel side exhaust
Rear suspension IRS forged w/complete kit (free promo)
F&R IRS Shock Set
Power steering
Platinum 6 pc gage set
Vinyl roadster seats
Powder coated frame
Driver side powder coated roll bar
Front/Rear Brakes 11.65"
Wood steering wheel
Cut outs in body
Precut 427 dash
Simpson 3" harnesses
GT300 mirrors
Plastic hood scoop
Sun visors
Roll bar grommets
Front and Rear sway bars
brake reservoirs
Brake booster
Wind wings
Trunk gas strut
Seat track
Assembled side Louvers
Battery cut-off
Brake duct wire mesh
Car cover
17x9 front and 17x10.5 rear halibrands and tires

I will be building a 351w based engine. I haven't decided yet on 351 or 408. I have a 351w that will really dictate the path forward based on how the crank and rods check out. If I have to do much of any work to them, I'll probably go the 408 route.

Sounds like a really nice build.

I vote for the 408

Sounds like a great build. And while you are stroking, might as well go with the quintessential 427? How about some 18's?

I would skip the precut dash. I ordered the precut 427 dash, but I wish I had opted for a plain dash so that I could choose the gauge locations. Speedometer placement is my main issue. The turn signal stalk goes directly across the Speedometer.

Attachment 227061

Congrats from Warrior, Alabama.
Fun, Fun, Fun!

Congrats on the start. I hate to say it but the number 1 or 2 question I always get is ... does it have the 427... and i wish it did.

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Originally Posted by cv2065

Sounds like a great build. And while you are stroking, might as well go with the quintessential 427? How about some 18's?

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I'm going for a quasi-period feel for this car. I feel like 17's are a middle ground. Still have some sidewall, but little better performance tire selection than 15's. I like 18", but not quite enough sidewall for the look I'm going for. I'm torn on the 427. Stepping up to an aftermarket block is a big spend. I'll admit there's a part of me that would love to say, "yeah, it's a 427." However, I can hit my performance goals with 351 or 408. I have a minute to figure that part out.

Everyone naturally gravitates to the biggest possible engine. I am guilty of it as well. My first Roadster had a 306 and honestly there was never moment where I was like "man, I need more power". If your looking for performance I would focus on the rear end and transmission. If you like a little more snap off the line go shorter, top end taller...etc.

Jeff tells a number for stories of folks who go to big and never drive them again. That being said a 408 would be pretty sic. Congrats on the build, it's a really fun process.

Today's Windsor derived 427s have nothing in common with the original 427 FE other than displacement (and actually not even that because in reality those were 425 cubic inches ;)). If you want to go to the Saturday morning Cars & Coffee and be able to say it's a 427 just put a 351 in it and lie! No one will be able to tell the difference from the outside...and it's no worse of a lie than the guys who claim 650 HP yet have never had their engine on a dyno :p

Jeff

Quote:

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Originally Posted by BamaFord

I'll admit there's a part of me that would love to say, "yeah, it's a 427."

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You can also get an LS 427 and say the same thing. :)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jeff Kleiner

Today's Windsor derived 427s have nothing in common with the original 427 FE other than displacement (and actually not even that because in reality those were 425 cubic inches ;)). If you want to go to the Saturday morning Cars & Coffee and be able to say it's a 427 just put a 351 in it and lie! No one will be able to tell the difference from the outside...and it's no worse of a lie than the guys who claim 650 HP yet have never had their engine on a dyno :p

Jeff

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I have a 393 based on a tall deck Windsor block. Depending on my mood when someone asks it might be a 351, a 393, a 408, or a 427. Unless you tear it down and measure the bore & stroke no one can tell what it is. And I'll tell you straight up, my 393 can really thrill the hell out of me.