Wow! Talking about beating a dead semantics horse. This is a "small-big" block linguistic paradigm interpretation on a 17-year-old thread. Perhaps there is some cubic inch envy here .

Most definitions include the words "a big block is bigger than a small block" and some claim it is heavier provided you are not comparing cast iron with aluminum. If there is no clear accepted definition as a standard, like with anything else, it can become interpretation. Even worse it could become a marketing slogan, a branded name used by different manufacturers similar to all of the names used for limited-slip differentials, or just become meaningless.

The 400ci threshold is at least one standard measure . Some say if the block is stroked to over 400ci on "most" engines with the "same block" then it is considered a big block even if it has one model configuration that is short crank stroked under 400ci. Then you have the opposite where a smaller block and bore is used but it is long stroked to over 400ci.

Power and efficiency are probably out of the scope of this thread but is it fair to compare the Gen 3 Hemi 5.7L (345ci) and 6.4L (392ci) engines? They are both considered a small block in stock configuration but there is a 110HP difference and both can be stroked well over 400ci. What about the builder who uses a "large" big block monster race engine designed for very high strength and power but it is intentionally short stroked under 400ci. to be considered a small block. Not a fair comparison or measurement metric?

 

This is a 17 year old thread....... You horse-beater you.