The Engine in the 72 I just bought runs good, but big loss of power

[Challenger Chuck]

Here's my question---What's my best option? Rebuild the original, or buy a new one? It has the original 318, but I remember the 318 my dad's 71 had in it, and that little sucker was quick! The car reads 41,000 miles, so my guess is 141,000. Runs and drives good, but power is weak, so tell me the best way to go to save money.

Thanks, and Mopar to you!

Chuck,

 

[moparleo]

Engine options

You ask, "Here's my question---What's my best option? Rebuild the original, or buy a new one? It has the original 318,"

What are you really asking ? It really depends on what you are trying to accomplish. Are you wanting tire burning torque ? Nice sound ? If you are going to stay with the "A" block engine, there are things you can do to improve performance now and still be able to use these parts on a rebuild or new engine.
The first thing to do that will give performance and good sounds, would be a good set of headers and an exhaust system to go with it. You can use the same headers if you build up a 318,340, 360 later. and then a 4BBL 318 intake manifold and carb. Upgrade the ignition system. These are just some things that you can do before you either rebuild the 318, or go with a new engine. If you buy a crate engine, they usually don't come with a carb or exhaust. So the parts can be used over. Just depends on what you are expecting....

 

[Challenger Chuck]

I had a friend look at the car today, and he said it runs just like it should. He said he could tune it up, put new filters on it and I would be shocked. He said he was surprised how good it ran, he said after he got done with it, that I should put some new headers and it would run and sound great.