• When it was initially introduced as the standard engine in the 1967 Camaro Super Sport, the 350 CI V-8 small block Chevy (SBC) was already a performance oriented engine platform. The base engine for non-SS Camaros was a six-cylinder engine, and smaller V-8 engines were also available. The 350 engine in the 1967 Camaro was rated at 295 horsepower. In just a few short years (by 1970), the 350 was producing more than 350 horsepower in Corvettes and Camaros. Following some of those same principles can result in a potent high-performance engine.
  
  

Areas to Focus On

• The 350 engine has been used in vehicles ranging from station wagons to pickup trucks. These standard engines weren't intended for high performance, but they responded well to general performance upgrades. High-performance engines produce more power in a higher rpm range. To get that increased output requires that the engine become a better "air pump." Modifications to the intake and exhaust systems, cylinder heads and camshaft allow an engine to become a more efficient pump. These were the common differences between the "muscle car era" 350 SBC and a standard "daily driver" 350.
  
  

Intake and Exhaust Upgrades

• Millions of 350 engines came equipped with a low-performance two-barrel carburetor and single exhaust. The base 350 engine in 1969 Camaros produced 250 horsepower; a 350 with a four-barrel carburetor was rated with more output. The same principle applies today -- an intake manifold/carb system that flows more air and fuel is capable of producing more power. As well, factory exhaust systems are restrictive. A more free-flowing dual exhaust system can improve the airflow and take better advantage of the increased airflow of the intake system. The difference in rated output between the base 350 and the four barrel, dual exhaust SS version is nearly 50 horsepower -- 250 versus 295.
  
  

Cylinder Heads, Compression and Camshafts

• Contrasting the difference between the 1969 295 horsepower 350 and the 1970 LT1 Z28 and Corvette 350s illustrates the importance of even further improvements in airflow. Power ratings jumped by more than 55 horsepower. The LT1 engine used even higher flowing cylinder heads that featured larger ports and valves. Additionally, the compression ratio was higher -- rated at 11:1. A camshaft with more aggressive valve timing was used, as well. This rare, powerful engine had an rpm range to well above 6,000. It was not suitable as an engine for anything other than muscle cars.
  
  

Modern Aftermarket Parts

• While duplicating the same principles that were used in high-output 350s 40 years ago illustrates the common areas to improve and upgrade, today's bolt-on aftermarket parts are far more powerful and efficient. A simple upgrade in intake system and carburetor, and an improved exhaust system, is likely the least expensive upgrade. From there, changes in cylinder heads and camshaft timing can offer the greatest increase, but that comes at more expense. A matched "package" or kit is available from aftermarket suppliers that includes heads, cam and lifters and the intake system, making power levels approaching or exceeding 400 horsepower within reach.