Yes, compared to the lightweight alloy, multi-valve-per-cylinder modern versions of the V8, the old-school Small Block Ford (SBF) might seem like a big, fat piece of Americana, but there’s never been any denying the power or its tuning potential.
The SBF life began as the 221ci 1962 Fairlane engine – plus the 260ci (4.2-litre) slotted in Sunbeam Tigers and conceptual AC Cobras. But the milestones began in 1963: the engine, now based around a 4 inch bore, established the legendary 289ci — known as the Mustang engine. However, vast production meant it powered everything; cars and trucks, and even boats!
There are two 1963 engines: the two-barrel, and the rare (only 17,000 produced) four-barrel, Hi-Po (271 bhp), seen in 1963-65 Comets, Fairlanes and 1965-68 Mustangs.
1965 saw a bellhousing bolt…
