The 302 and 350 are both reliable engines and are derivatives of earlier versions. Both are decent engines to use in hot rods and engine swaps. If you’ve been asking whether they are the same motor. Read on to discover their differences and which one is better.
The 302 and 350 motors are not the same. A 302 is small and weighs considerably less than a 350. It’s also possible to. Although both have some similar features such as reliability and a four-inch bore, a 350 is a better option.
When trying to choose a better engine between the 302 and 350, you must understand the features of each. This is because each product offers exceptional performance for the platforms for which they were designed.
What Is The Background Of The 302 Motor?
The 302 first appeared in 1968 to replace the 289. It was widely popular in Ford Mustangs and Mercury Cognacs. The 302 was also used in various Ford passenger models including Torino, Fairlaine, Ranchero, Crown Victoria, and Fairmont. It was also in vans and trucks.
Between 1968 to 1979, the standard 302 had a two-barrel carburetor and produced 210 hp and 295 lb torque. There was an increase in power output by 1970 to bump 220 hp and 310 lb torque. However, the oil embargo forced the manufacturer to decrease power in 1971 to 174 hp.
Production of the 302 ended 20 years ago but engine enthusiasts keep it more relevant. Its aftermarket parts are readily available including carburetor setups and cylinder heads. Factory-adding options are also available where parts of its later model are put on other models.
What Is The Background Of The 350 Motor?
The 350 was introduced in 1967 as a high-performance option for the 1967 Camaro. Its first version produced 295 hp and 380 lb torque. This engine was used in various models including the Corvette, Nova, and Impala.
A toned-down version was introduced during the 1970s oil crisis producing 145 hp. The engine reclaimed its title as a high-performance option for GM full-size vans although its production ceased in 2002. Its lightweight design and high power made it popular among street racers.
Are 302 And 305 The Same Motors?
The 302 and 350 are entirely different. They have similar dimensions, performance potential, and weight and are equally reliable. However, the 302 exceeds in terms of being lightweight and compact. The 350 has a slight edge over all other specs.
Building a 320 out of a 350 is possible because they share a slightly similar four inches bore.
What Are The Differences Between The 302 And The 350 Motors?
Before understanding which of the engines is better, it’s essential to tell the differences between them.
Check The Crank
There is no need to tear the engines apart to tell how they differ. Looking at the crank flange can tell the crank in each. The crank in the 302 and that in the 350 is different. That of the 320 resembles one for the 283. It’s round and has a small cut-out with a pie shape.
The crank for a 350 has a flange with an arrowhead shape. A 302 has a round crank with two notches removed. That of the 350 has a tiny counterweight and extends beyond the round flange which is unmachined.
Another way to tell the crank difference is by checking the stamped number on the passenger’s head. A 350 motor outnumbers the 302 by about a million to one.
Physical Size
The 302 is physically smaller with powerplant dimensions to fit in small engine compartments. It fits models such as British roadsters, Falcons, and Pintos. A 350 is physically larger and heavier. Its casting has a robust design with various blocks and factory four-bolt main journals.
Motor Weight
A 302 weighs less than a 350 engine making it a great swap for light cars. It weighs below 500 pounds depending on options. A Boss weighs 500 pounds while a standard model weighs 450 pounds. Alternatively, a 350 weighs 575 pounds, or 535 for a Corvette.
Stroke Size
Another difference between the 302 and the 350 engines is the stroke. Both engines have similar four-inch bores. However, the 302 has a shorter three-inch stroke. This allows it to rev higher and faster.
The 350 engine has a 3.48-inch stroke. It gives this engine greater capacity to produce more power and torque. Additionally, the stroke gives this engine higher displacement. Its engine casting offers extra bottom strength.
Availability of Parts
When looking for factory parts for both engines, the 302 has an advantage. There’s a chance of getting hold of the original Boss head and intake manifolds. These can give the engine capacity to output 375 hp effortlessly.
Alternatively, matching the Boss’s output per cubic inch would take the 350 about 435 hp and 575. Nevertheless, the 350 was more suited for racing and had more power with a better cylinder head and intake manifold design.
Cost Considerations
When considering costs for engine swaps, the 350 is a better option than the 302. A stock 350 beats the 302 in all circumstances in certain conditions. A 302 has 10 head bolts on each side. Four bolts seal each cylinder.
The 350 has 17 bolt heads on each side. Every cylinder has five bolts to offer a tight seal. This gives the engine’s head gasket the ability to perform extremely well when exposed to high pressures.
What Engine Is Better Among The 302 And The 350?
The 350 is generally a better engine compared to the 302. You don’t have to run aggressively to get the same power. Although even the 302 has the same ability, it’s a bit slower than the 350. Additionally, it’s a bit more expensive to build reliability from a higher-revving motor.
A 350 builds significantly more torque than a 302 and exceeds its horsepower yet it can rev the same. The 302 does a good job for a small car. If you have a big car, a 350 is ideal for more torque.
Overall
The 302 and the 350 are not the same motors. A 302 is smaller and weighs less than a 350. It’s more suitable in small models that don’t need as much torque. Generally, a 350 is a better option for producing more torque and revving.
