Last year, Popular Hot Rodding magazine (a sister publication to KIT CAR) launched a new competition designed to showcase the absolute edge of street engine performance. Called the Engine Masters Challenge, the program was based on hard parameters (like displacement and permissible parts) with plenty of room for talented engine builders to show their skills while they focused on small-block domestic V-8s of no more than 366 ci of displacement.
The participating builders (chosen from entry forms submitted prior to a deadline date) were given the freedom to select any factory-replacement parts they liked. The participants were welcome to modify some parts (like cylinder head ports and intakes) while being limited to out-of-the-box components in other cases (like oil pans and headers). The ultimate result was a recipe for tremendous street performance. The winning small-block would provide a blueprint for our readers to follow, based on readily-available parts and proven dimensions.
The rules are described in detail at the www.enginemasters.com Web site. The basic concept combines the want for 92-octane-compliant powerplants tested from 3,000-6,500 rpm only. Rather than focusing on peak power points, the program scores the engines on average power levels (both torque and horsepower) in the tested range. This forces participants to look at broad powerbands instead of peaky points, as both average torque and average horsepower figures are added together to create a final score.
The rewards for the builders making the most average power are in cold, hard cash. Based upon contingency participation, monetary awards are paid by the manufacturers of the components chosen. Participating manufacturers are encouraged to work with the builders, and these teamings force the kind of research street enthusiasts can truly benefit from.
By limiting the engines to commercially-available parts, the final recipe can be easily duplicated so readers can expect similar results for their projects. Naturally, the fine-tuning and cylinder head work done by the engine builders may not be easily duplicated at home, but contacting these participants for similar work is another benefit of the program. By showing their talents in dyno-based competition, the participating builders are promoting themselves to an audience of street enthusiasts, many of who are potential customers.
The program is truly beneficial to all who participate; from the builders competing, to the manufacturers who's products are being used, to the readers who can see proof of performance in engine competition without drivers, cars, track conditions, or traction issues. This is purely a flywheel-to-flywheel race, and regardless of the preferred racing discipline of the builder, engine power levels are something we can all relate to.
We expect the finest professionals and amateurs to bring the best-possible motors to run and Chevy, Ford, Mopar, Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac are all represented. What are the benchmark power levels for each of these proud American V-8s in street trim?
All of the engines will be required to breathe through a street standard 14-inch diameter by 3-inch tall air filter, and also through common 3-inch diameter (both in and out) street mufflers. The power numbers you'll see are as close as possible to exactly what your transmission will see. The 92-octane fuel is a specified grade all supplied from the exact same batch upon manufacture, and is completely controlled by the dyno facilities.
Some of the nation's best builders have already signed up, and expectations are justifiably high. The recipes responsible for the creation of the engines, along with downloadable dyno power curves and more will all be offered on the www.enginemasters.com website. If this format appeals to you, and you wish to participate, look over all the information at the Website and download the rules and entry forms there.