Is this a viable "stock" NHRA ride?
 

I have the chance to pick up 1990 Cadillac Coupe Deville with the 4.5 V8 front wheel drive. From what I can tell, this is a 273 c.i. aluminum block with cast iron heads. 1.811 throttle body and the engine is a 3.623 bore and a 3.307 stroke. is a 10.28 compression with a 7.9 cc dish piston and 45 cc head. 457/473 cam. From the classification it says that this engine can have external air inlet. I don't recall anyone running on os these back in the day, but has anyone on here tried. Rated at 180 hp or 16.70 weight break. would be a B/FS and can ballast to 17.5 to run "C". B is 14.65 and C is 15.15. Just curious if this is a dead horse or can it be made to run? Thanks guys. Myron Stutes

Re: Is this a viable "stock" NHRA ride?
 

Here... http://www.classracerinfo.com/CGPage...&MAKE=Cadillac

Re: Is this a viable "stock" NHRA ride?
 

I would say if the motor can make 300hp it would run low 14s. The throttle body seems restrictive, but it may do OK for 273 ci.

Re: Is this a viable "stock" NHRA ride?
 

There were a few FWD Cadillac V8s with 250 and 273 engines with throttle bodies raced in the late 80s when they were not allowed in the FWD classes, so they ran regular stock classes. They were semi-factory sponsored cars and ran pretty good. The 90 model is a much better choice since it is port fuel injected with roller lifters at only 10 more power rating. Head gasket sealing and intake gaskets are issues. I do not know the strength of the transaxle. If you can deal with the fwd, It should have good potential since the heads flow well for the engine size, blueprints at 11:0 compression and has a huge camshaft.


Downside is that it will not be cheap.

Re: Is this a viable "stock" NHRA ride?
 

The biggest benefits of the early (late 70s thru mid 80s) FWD Caddys,Toronados and Rivs was the transaxles compared to the later sideways mounted engine cars. They were (basically) 400 turbos connected to a Dana44 by a chain. Much more parts availability and strength.