Hot rods have been around for decades, and they have come a long way since the days of the Ford Flathead V8. From the classic Chevy small block Gen I engine to the modern GM HOT Cam, there are a variety of engines that have been used in hot rods over the years. The Chevrolet Performance 427 LS7 505 hp armed engine is one of the most popular engines for hot rods. This engine is designed for performance at all costs, and it has been used in a variety of vehicles. The Ford Performance Aluminator Coyote 580 hp armed engine is another popular choice for hot rods, as it provides a good balance between power and efficiency.
The Chevrolet Performance LT4 650 hp armed engine is another popular option for hot rods. This engine is designed to provide maximum power and performance, and it has been used in a variety of vehicles. The Chevrolet Performance LT5 755 hp armed engine is also a popular choice for hot rods, as it provides an impressive amount of power and performance. The Ford Flathead V8 is widely regarded as the “ancestor of the entire American V8 scene”.
This engine was launched in 1932 and was unlike anything the world had seen at the time. It was designed by Carl Schmaltz, Ray Lard and Mil Zoerlein, and it was simple with poured babbit-type main bearings, 21-head studs, two water pumps, and a belt for the generator and fan. For Hot Rods, Street Rods and everyday drivers, nothing beats the tried and true Chevy small block Gen I engine. This engine has been a staple for project car builders since its inception.
The small size and decent power range have endeared it to the automotive community that has powered every type of vehicle imaginable. The Beatnik Bandit had a 5-liter V8 engine equipped with a GMC supercharger that was clearly visible since the car did not have a hood covering the powertrain. The car also had a bubble cabin that gave the hot rod a unique and futuristic look. In the 1930s, Duesenburg was producing a 400hp supercharged engine that ran so smooth that it could support nickels in the car's fender. Although its design was not groundbreaking, the classic car had everything you could want from a classic hot rod.
The California Kid has been used in several movies and TV shows, making it one of the most famous hot rods in the world. The first-generation Chevrolet Camaro and, to a lesser extent, the Pontiac Firebird are some of the most popular cars of all time. Using the time-tested ZZ4 short block assembly, GM Motorsports developed the GM HOT Cam for use with LT1 and LT4 engines used in exhibition road racing. Designed and built by Aaron Brown, the Hot Rod is based on the 1939 Ford pickup he managed to find in Texas. Rounding out the 430 hp long block are GM Performance fast-burning cylinder heads with all components combined for use with the HOT Cam. Meanwhile, Oldsmobile 442 and Pontiac GTO were now available with a large 455 block, and Buick would introduce the 1970 GSX, a high-performance package with 455 horsepower for its popular Gran Sport. Hot rods aren't meant to be practical or even sporty, but are designed from the ground up to make a statement.
The HOT Cam specifications were developed to ensure long-term valve train durability along with a wide and responsive torque curve. While many throughout history have been forgettable, some have completely influenced how engines are built today, changing the game for the automotive industry and hot rodder scene. Designed by Boyd Coddington, the French Connection is one of the most elegant and unique hot rods of all time. This classic hot rod is more on the elegant side of things with a classic black body and a silver hood cut out with elegant silver stripes. No matter what type of hot rod, street rod or everyday driver you have, Pace Performance has an affordable armored engine solution for driving down the road, throwing some traction in an autocross or just showing off at a car show. As one of the most expensive hot rods in existence today, The Deuce Roadster is one of the most iconic vehicles ever made.
