351W vs 351C

macx · 01-26-2001, 07:34 PM

Well, not quite. Both are "small blocks" (there's also a 400 small block and a 351m for modified version of the 400 with a 351 length stroke - they DO share the same bellhousing pattern as the 385 series big blocks) The real major difference is in the head design. The Cleveland has "small" 2bbl heads and "big" 4bbl heads - only thing is both of them are "big (valve)" heads. All except some of the 4bbl heads are open chamber and therefore not overly efficient from a combustion & detonation resistance standpoint. However, with big valves and ports, they flow like gangbusters - even the 'small" 2bbl heads. Problem is they're just about too big for a street motor - especially the 4bbl heads. Too big valves and ports kill low and mid range torque and throttle response. So, they're great for hi rpm racing, but not so good for the street. With the WIDE selection of really good heads for the 351W's out there, the W's can be built from mild street to REALLY hot track/strip and, at the same level of performance, will at least match if not beat the C's. Also, lots more parts available, wider selection of intakes (no efi for C's) and cams, etc etc. Windsor block (especially the new reasonably priced Sportsman block from Ford) is a little sturdier and does have a better oiling system. C blocks in extreme use like to crack internally. They're still really neat engines and can really perform - they're just not as modern a design from a head standpoint as the W's now that the W's have such a large selection of excellent aftermarket heads.

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01-26-2001, 07:34 PM	#1
macx Registered Member Join Date: Oct 1999 Location: Gordonville MO USA Posts: 448	Well, not quite. Both are "small blocks" (there's also a 400 small block and a 351m for modified version of the 400 with a 351 length stroke - they DO share the same bellhousing pattern as the 385 series big blocks) The real major difference is in the head design. The Cleveland has "small" 2bbl heads and "big" 4bbl heads - only thing is both of them are "big (valve)" heads. All except some of the 4bbl heads are open chamber and therefore not overly efficient from a combustion & detonation resistance standpoint. However, with big valves and ports, they flow like gangbusters - even the 'small" 2bbl heads. Problem is they're just about too big for a street motor - especially the 4bbl heads. Too big valves and ports kill low and mid range torque and throttle response. So, they're great for hi rpm racing, but not so good for the street. With the WIDE selection of really good heads for the 351W's out there, the W's can be built from mild street to REALLY hot track/strip and, at the same level of performance, will at least match if not beat the C's. Also, lots more parts available, wider selection of intakes (no efi for C's) and cams, etc etc. Windsor block (especially the new reasonably priced Sportsman block from Ford) is a little sturdier and does have a better oiling system. C blocks in extreme use like to crack internally. They're still really neat engines and can really perform - they're just not as modern a design from a head standpoint as the W's now that the W's have such a large selection of excellent aftermarket heads.