What Options do I have for Engines that fit in a 1976 Chevrolet Malibu Classic?

Question

It has a small block 350 in it now, i'm lookin to give it LOTS of power for a show car/street racing car. ANY idea's from some pros?

Answer 1

You can fit just about any Chevrolet V8 in this engine compartment.

Your checkbook is your only limitation.  Power costs money, and lots of it.

Any of the first generation small block V8s will be a direct bolt in.  The motor mounts, transmission, and accessory brackits will bolt right up.

However, if you are adding a significant amount of power, there are some things you may want to change.

The motor mounts are over 30 years old.  They should be replaced.

If it is an automatic, which most of them were, it has a Turbo 350.  I would not expect a 30 year old Turbo 350 to last long with a more powerful engine.  Replace it with a rebuilt Turbo 400 or a decent rebuilt 4 speed.

I would not expect a 30 year old differential to last long.  It most likely isn't even a posi.  I would replace it with a Chevy 12 bolt or a Ford 9 inch.  Add a positrak differential.

For an engine you could rebuild the one you have.  If you choose this option, go to the Summit Racing website and search Bang for the buck.   There are some good top end combination kits that will get you some decent power from your old 350.  However, if your 350 has a 2 bolt main block, you may also want to consider a new 350 short block.

If you want a new motor, go to the Summit racing website and checkout their selection fo crate motors.  There are over 100 that will fit your car.  Let you budget be your guide.

Or you could look somewhere else on the Internet for a motor.  There are many places selling Chevrolet crate motors.

If your engine is a 2 bolt main block, you could also get a rebuildable 350 out of a pickup truck from a salvage yard.

You have so many choices with this car.

Have fun

Answer 2

Most inexpensive way is to upgrade the power is to install a "383" stroker kit..... and if you have "cubic dollars", then put a 572ci stroker big block engine into it.  Another idea is to buy a new late model 427ci from a wrecked Corvette and install it.  

Answer 3

nothing wrong with the 350 you have just build it better ...possibilities are endless

Answer 4

My brother says why not put in a supercharged Ford 351 out of an F-150 Lightning!!

Answer 5

anything from a 265 to a 572 all chevys will bolt in to your car. how much do you want to spend.?. there is other issues of a trans big enough to handle it , exaust from a small block to a big block, converters,rear ends and so on.. but --all the chevy blocks will work in your car. in '76 they came with six cylinders, small block v8's and even a malibu / laguna S with a big block 454.. have fun .. theres alot you can do..!