60flattop 348

[60flattop348]

Hi, I just purchased a 60 Impala flattop. It originally had power windows, a power seat and a 348!! It now has a 283 but I hope to find a rebuildable 348 and put 3 dueces on it.. The flattop is my favorite body style because it looks like a custom car from the factory.. I have a black 4 door sedan. i guess I like 4 doors.. I hope to learn more about the 348. I 've heard it moves the 60 doen the road better.. I dunno since I've never driven one with a 348.. Any thoughts?

[Tom Kochtanek]

Welcome and congratulations on your very good taste in automobiling!

The 1960 is a fairly hefty car (sorry Fatride!) and while that 283 is a great engine, the 348 just commands sooooo much more attention when you open the hood. Very few folks have 'em, and you've come to the right place to learn more.

I'm going to recall your 283 with a two barrel carb has around 170 horses stock (give or take a few) and the base 348 that year boasted a minimum of 250 HP. Torque is also up, an important consideration in the heavier cars. So the 348 or even a 409 is the way to go to differentiate yourself from the thousand of other guys running small blocks in their 60s. With a bit of work its easy to get 350 to 400 horses in the 348 (depends on how much you want to spend, it can go higher) and the resulting torque will change how you drive your car.

The 1960 is a great looker, the 4 door sedan a good representation of those times past. Enjoy it and make it yours!

Best,
TomK

P.S. Where in Ohio are you located? We have several members from that great state!

[60flattop348]

I live in Cincinnati.. I go to Springfield all the time and I just missed a 348 there for 300$... I hope to find one in Ohio so I can drive and get the engine.. I always look on ebay but if it is affordable it is in California and I could not afford to ship it..