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As the topic says, I want to know what the difference is between these two types of engines.

Is the bigblock stronger or is it just named "big" because it is a lot bigger in size?

Please tell me.

 
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Ok, well, big blocks were actually a bigger block than the small blocks. I'm going to use Chevy as an example, because I'm more familiar with them. The Chevy small block, started out as a 260 cubic inch, and can be had as big as 454 cubic inches. The big block started out as 396, and to the best of my knowledge the biggest one Chevy offers currently, is the 572 big block crate motor. I'm not sure of the wieght difference, but I'd guess around 100 lbs.

 
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In the late 70s GM also began bolting 350 heads to 400 powered t/as , this inscreased performance. But also made the top of the engine look alote different then you're average big block. Another thing you can't mock is the sound of a BBC!

 
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Pontiac has no big or small block. all blocks are the same just the bore and stroke that are different.
A pontiac engine is larger in appearance than a chevy small block and alot of people called it a big block.

Chevy small blocks (production)
265, 267, 283, 302, 305, 307, 327, 350, 400
Chevy big blocks (production)
366, 396, 402, 427, 454,
I may be missing one ore two.
The wheight difference is between 150 and 200 lbs
And to answer the original question, All engines big or small block have their weak points and strong points. Big block engines are not anymore stronger than a good small block. They all have their breaking points.
Big block engines can be taken farther in displacment than a small block due to its size and clearance.

 
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Thanks for clearing that up!

 
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In theory yes there is no big block engine it was based on internal bore and stroke. But still the 455 sure as hell sounds like a big block.

 
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No theory just fact.
Every V8 pontiac from(I think) 326 to 455 shared the same block casting so there are no big or small block from pontiac.
And ya in stock form a 455 is going to have more thump to it than a pontiac 350.
A larger bore will do that.