Period Correct Engine and Car Value

[5thTimeAround]

Looking at purchasing a 72 SS (not yet verified), U code (big block) but the original motor was swapped a long time ago for a 350 unfortunately. Original engine not available at all. I have the chance to also buy a 1972 396 motor that came from a different Camaro from the same seller. I understand a matching numbers car is always worth more than non-matching, but will swapping in a period correct motor do anything for the overall value of the car? Trying to decide if it's worth spending another $3k (CDN) on the motor.

Thanks,
Scott

 

[70lt1z28]

In my opinion, if the engine is at least a suffix correct with the ultimate of date correct, it will add least 3k to the cars value and a good purchase. You would then be only giving up the VIN correctness. If it is just a date correct but from a different model or a standard trans car going in an automatic car (or vice-versa) or if the 3k is just a “core” cost and it will need totally rebuilt then you may be upside down eventually.

 

[5thTimeAround]

Good info thanks. I’ll investigate further

 

[badazz81z28]

I don’t think a non correct engine will add any value. However, being a big block over a 350 will have buyer preference value. Some will prefer a big block car. At the end of the day, the car is either correct or it’s not. If it’s not correct, it’s the buyer who will decide

 

[5thTimeAround]

I don’t think a non correct engine will add any value. However, being a big block over a 350 will have buyer preference value. Some will prefer a big block car. At the end of the day, the car is either correct or it’s not. If it’s not correct, it’s the buyer who will decide

Thank you. I bought the car but passed on the engine