Auto Racing: 281 4.6L 96 Mustang, saleen parnelli jones, parnelli jones

Question
Steve,
I've got a 96' mustang that's requiring some maintenance after 10yrs and 96k miles. I figure why not upgrade. I have a set of performance heads, cold air, shorty headers, and beefed up the exhaust amongst other things. I had to replace the block also. I've got a bare Romeo block, and my buddy suggested going with a stroker kit. I've done a little research and it seems that the increase (281ci to 302ci) really isn't worth the money (a couple grand or more). I've got the old crank and pistons, but my friend says it wouldn't be wise to use the worn parts with a new block. Is there a better setup for the money, i.e. a rebuild kit or boring the block out, where I would see better power gains for the money? I'd use pump fuel and really don't expect to push more than 400hp. thx

Answer
E.J.-

  A lot of what you're asking depends on what kind of power you want from the car.  A stroker kit isn't a bad idea since you'll have replace the internals anyway (well...maybe you don't HAVE to, but it's definitely a good idea) since it's not much of an extra cost over a standard rebuild.  Having a stroker kit and no power adder will give you a racier feel to the engine, but the power won't come on big until higher rpms.  If you wanted to do a basic rebuild with a few strengthened internals like forged pistons, you could always go with forced induction.  In that case I'd use a twin screw blower or a turbo.  Either will provide a big kick in the pants and you can see full boost as soon as 2500rpm.  Then again, the overall cost of either route would almost surely be more expensive than a stroker kit.  You might take a look at the new motor Saleen built for it's Saleen/Parnelli Jones limited edition car.  Not for the motor itself, but for the specs.  It makes an all-motor 400hp and 390lb/ft and is totally streetable using a 4.6L stroked to 5.0L.