Considerations:
* Weight and Chassis: The El Camino's chassis wasn't designed for extremely powerful engines. Putting in something massively overpowered might require significant modifications (reinforcements, suspension upgrades, etc.) to handle the increased stress and power.
* Drivetrain: You'll likely need to upgrade the transmission, driveshaft, and rear end to match a significantly more powerful engine. A stock drivetrain won't hold up to the increased torque.
* Cost: High-performance engines and the necessary modifications can be very expensive.
* Practicality: How much horsepower do you *really* need for daily driving? A massive engine might be overkill and less enjoyable to drive regularly.
Potential Engine Candidates (in roughly increasing order of power and complexity):
* LS-series V8 (e.g., LS1, LS6, LS3): A very popular choice for swaps. These modern GM small-block V8s offer great power and relatively good fuel efficiency compared to older big-block engines. However, they require a significant amount of fabrication and custom parts for the swap.
* Big-block Chevrolet (e.g., 454, 427): These offer immense power, but they're heavy, thirsty, and require considerable modifications to the car. They're also more expensive to maintain.
* Small-block Chevrolet (e.g., 350, 383 stroker): A 350 is relatively easy to source parts for and can be built to impressive power levels. A stroker (increasing the crankshaft stroke for more displacement) is a great way to boost power within a 350 block.
* Ford 302 or 351 Windsor: While not originally in El Caminos, these are readily available, powerful engines that are suitable for a swap, but still require substantial modification and fabrication.
Recommendation:
For a balance of power, relative ease of installation (relatively speaking, engine swaps are *always* complex), and cost-effectiveness, a well-built 350 small-block Chevrolet or a 383 stroker would likely be a great starting point. They offer good power, are relatively lightweight compared to big-blocks, and have a large aftermarket support network.
Before you begin:
* Research thoroughly: Read articles and forums dedicated to El Camino engine swaps. This will give you a realistic understanding of the time, cost, and effort involved.
* Consult professionals: Seek advice from experienced mechanics or engine builders. They can help you plan the swap and avoid costly mistakes.
Ultimately, the "best" engine depends on your budget, mechanical skills, and desired performance level. Don't rush into it; plan carefully, and enjoy the build process!
