Best engine: 302, 5.0, or 351W...
 

I'm going to drop a V8 into my '65 coupe this fall, and I'm trying to determine what the best engine for me is going to be. My car is a daily driver, and I live in Texas so air conditioning is crucial. I'm aware of size problems with each of them, especially the windsor. Right now my front runner is a GT-40 long block, but i'm open to any ideas or suggestions. If anybody has any pros or cons about any of these engines, please let me know

302- The same size as the 5.0, but alot stronger block than the 5.0. 302's are notorious for running hot, I have a 302 in my 67 and after driving it for 20 min it starts getting warm real quick. I also live in Texas.

5.0- The weakest of the 3 motors, but will probably be your best bet for daily driving. Still a very good motor.

351- This motor will give you the most HP and torque. If you put this in your 65, you should still be able to run AC, I am not positive but do not see why, someone correct me if wrong.

If you want the most power and strength go with the 351, but for daily driving i would go with that gt-40 crate motor, and get you a nice Griffin 3-core radiator. The Gt-40 will give you power and street ablity.

A roller 351 W. Of course it would have to be a custom cam job.

I din't know griffen made 3 row radiators. I though they only made 1 inch and 1 1/4 inch each row, 2 row radiators.

So you think a gt-40 crate is the way to go? I noticed you live in coppell, i'm in flower mound...do you know any good engine places in the dallas area i should check out?

definetly a 351, a good 5.0's good for about 300 reliable horses

Fostang, check out http://griffinrad.com/60present.htm and go down to the bottom of the page they have some for older cars and mustangs.

mike41, I sent you a PM about engine shops.