180 hp Caddy Motor

[SSDiv6]

Originally Posted by Adger Smith

Just some random thoughts. (probably not worth .02) :~)
I was always been under the assumption the original factor was based on the factory rated HP. Then when someone hammers, or works, the AHFS the factors move.
Just because a factory underrates an engine is NOT the fault of you so called "Nimrods"
Let's face it.... There are certain combinations that start out factory underrated that respond well to the changes allowed in Stock & Super Stock. For whatever reason, Some have big induction, decent heads & a small cam. Others have the same with a poor set of Ex manifolds. So, when the NHRA allowed changes take place a precieved slug comes alive. A sleeper suddenly wakes up. Who knows why a Caddy had a 180 Hp engine? Could GM have made it that way so all the grey haired old ladies buying those Caddys thought they got good gas mileage. Probably had to do with the original marketing approach of the times. Looks like the system is working when a combo gets hit as hard as the Caddy engine. The hard working guys that have studied the system & used it to their advantage are just reaping the results. Running fast, qualifying high & adding HP to the combo.

Good call by Adger. This is same premise when people complain when new cars, such as the Roush Mustangs were added to the classification list. The AHFS will catch up with them eventually.

This particular Olds EFI engine used in the Cadillac, was a dog as an OEM street car. It had many problems related to the ECM and the HP factor from the manufacturer was correct. However, lets take this same engine, built under the current rules were you are allowed an aftermarket ECM and ignition, and other modifications, then you have a performer.

So, for smart people like Real Racer, why don't you tell NHRA how they should factor a new combination when they do not have a baseline to start from and all they have is the OEM HP?