Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

New guy here. How do the Packard 352/374 engines stack up against the small block Chevy engines, performance wise? If we had the Packard and Chevy engines equally equiped, in equal weight cars cars? And do the Packards have the ability to respond to performance modifications as the Chevy small block? I know this is a BROAD question, but if I'm going to go with the Packard engine, I need to have some idea. Thanks, guys...

If you are talking the same year of production, then there is no comparison. In 1955 Packard (352CID) had a max of 275HP whereas SBC (265 CID) was 195HP. In 1956 Packard (374) had a max of 310HP whereas SBC (still 265CID) was 225HP. Of course, after that, development on the Packard V-8 ceased although it was ultimately intended for 500CID displacement.

See this page from my website for details:

1956packardpanther.com/Panther/engine3.html

As far as ability to respond to performance mods, definitely yes Packard could do as well as the SBC. See the above website regarding mods to 374 Panther engine for examples. How far do you want to go? Bring your (fat) wallet.

Craig

I wouldn't waste my time trying to hot rod a Packard V-8.

It's just a plain Jane OHV without the greatest engineering.

It's also a big block. If you want to hotrod something different why not get a hold of an Edsel engine. Their advertising read as follows: "They're the industry's biggest and the best". Of course they weren't, but 410cuin isn't bad and it's a Y-block whereas the Packard is a shallow block with lots of main bearing flex.

Quote:

Them's fightin' words Tim. You bring on any block and heads cast in 1955 and we'll run a Packard V8 head's up and probably win.

That the SBC has sixty years of aftermarket and racing support can't be overcome. As long as it's '55 iron, they wouldn't have a chance.

There was no such thing as an Edsel engine, just same-old Ford/Mercury/Lincoln 6-cyls, Y-block, FE and MELs.

jack vines

Owning a Packard is supposed to be relaxing. It isn't a sports car or a dragster, so why bother.

Mine is reliable (usually) which is what I want; I can keep up with the usual tollway traffic which is about all I ask for.

If you want a hot rod, get a SBC.....

No hostility intended, but I do not "get" the why.....

Quote:

Pat, you are entitled to your opinion and I'll defend to the death your right to write it.

On the other hand, some of us came to the Packard V8 through the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk. With the Packard V8 in the slim, light Studebaker body, it was the quickest and fastest car sold in 1956.

jack vines

Pat Green Quote:

Tell that to Everett Hatch, back in the day: Big Bad Clipper Almost 98MPH at 4575LB! 1/4-mile speed in 1957. This calculates to 308HP rear wheel, 342HP flywheel.

1956packardpanther.com/PV8C/HRM195708A.html

Now restored and owned by Paul Delaney:


Craig

WHOA guys!...I'm doing a 56 Golden Hawk. I'm NOT looking to make it into a Hot Rod, just want to maximize the engine it came with....thus, my newbie question...

345DeSoto, welcome to PackardInfo.com.
Just ignore the background noises and keep us posted on your Golden Hawk project.

345Desoto Quote:

No sweat. My 2nd post wasn't responding to your post, but to Pat Green's post.

BTW, I've always wanted a 56J. Also, some of the guys from that club have installed the Olds oil pump conversion in their 56Js.

Craig