Dear forum engine experts -

My son and I are making final selections on a FFR Mark IV kit and are seeking the advice of engine experts out there. Admittedly, we are not gear heads. We want to go with a 302 motor because we are assuming it will make the build more "standard" and we are looking for a more drivable/reliable engine that has about 350-425 hp. We won't be doing racing and are a bit intimidated by the complexity and hp of the Coyote engines. We are also looking to do the car in period correct racing trim and like the look of the traditional 289/302/347.

With that background, there are three options we are considering. But we don't know the ins and outs of how well some of these engine components perform. Any advice or thoughts on these three options we are looking at:

Option 1) A local shop will get us a new Ford Performance 302 CI 340 HP BOSS CRATE ENGINE WITH "E" CAM tied to a T5 transmission. Comes with Holley Terminator, with a Fast 302 intake, 4150 THROTTLE BODY FOR EFI. claims about 350 hp (approx $16,500 all done)

Option 2) Same local shop will refresh a 347 that has about 50k miles on it tied to a T5 transmission. Comes with Holley Terminator, with a Fast 302 intake, 4150 THROTTLE BODY FOR EFI. claims about 400hp (approx $13,500 all done)

Option 3) Forte will build us a BOSS 363 LONG BLOCK E/STREET HEAD tied to a TKO-600 transmission. Comes with Edelbrock 302 PRO FLOW 4 EFI about 420 hp (approx $18,000)

All have Cobra air cleaners and valve covers, starter, 160 or 165 amp alternator, oil filter, bell housing, fly wheel, etc. so all three are drop in ready.

So I guess I am seeking advice on the engines and the fuel injection set up. How easy are they to install and maintain? If it was your car and money, which of these three would you pick? Is it better to go with a T5 because it is smoother to shift or a TKO600 given the hp we are dealing with?

Thank you in advance for your help. We pray you and your families stay safe and healthy.

Ken Seddon
Ken.seddon@lotnet.com