50 Reasons Why We Love It

32. There isn't a better way
The hollow-pushrod, oil-fed valvetrain used in the small-block fixed a nagging oiling problem with V-8 engines. Rocker-arm construction and cylinder-head water-jacket design would look to the advances made and tuned during the early years of small-block evolution.

33. It's the most common racing engine in the world
Whether under the hood of the local late-model stock car or hidden under deck in a Scarab power boat, the small-block continues to lead the way with lightweight, cheap, and high-powered performance.

34. It makes GM money
The small-block Chevy engine parts and crate engine program is one of the General's most reliable cash generators.

35. Because one size fits all
Few engines have been available in so many different bore-and-stroke configurations. Today, just about any displacement, from 262 to well over 400 cubes, is available.

36. It put Chaparrals in the winner's circle
A prototype aluminum small-block was first created for the five Grand Sport Corvettes and for Jim Hall's high-tech Chaparrals. The lightweight small-block made tremendous power and helped Hall's sophisticated road racers kick the competition to the curb.

37. Because virtually any induction system ever made will fit
Methanol-compatible Hilborn injectors, eight downdraft Webers, twin turbochargers, triple-stage nitrous injection systems, dual four-barrel tunnel rams, or simple single two-barrel Rochester carburetor, the small-block Chevy can handle them all.

38. Because you can never have too much power
Small-block Chevy engines may have started from humble 162-horse ratings, but developed as much as 375 horses in 1964 and, today, generate 500 SAE horses in the new Corvette Z06. Small-block Chevy engines also have made 1000 horsepower in some racing applications, even backyard builders can create 600-horse versions.

39. It's been a V-6, too
Chevy's first V-6, launched in 1978, was a small-block with two cylinders cut off. A 3.5-inch bore and 3.48-inch stroke yielded 201 cubic inches. A larger version of that engine lives today as the 4.3-liter Vortec V-6.

40. It's helped protect us all
Small-blocks powered air-raid sirens during the paranoia of the Cold War.