BluePrint’s 598ci big-block Chevy was recently featured in a piece by David Freiburger on Hot Rod Network where he explores using our 598 in an unconventional way.

Freiburger hosts the show “Engine Masters” where he, Steve Brulé, and Steve Dulcich play around with engines, bust motor myths, and prove some truths.

He had an idea on a recent episode that his cohosts weren’t crazy about, but he wanted to experiment with our 598.

He writes:

“The 598 with a stock deck height uses regular parts, so I imagined a scenario where a guy has an average 396, 427, or 454 in his ride and he wants more everyday power. My question was this: what would happen if that guy just used his existing parts on top off a 598ci short-block?”

Freiburger says that the 598 is great because it’s a low-deck engine. The extra height from a popular Chevy 572 or 632 provides more weight, a tougher fit in the car, custom headers, and a dedicated intake manifold. He and his crew ran the 598 for horsepower and torque.

“Guys guessed I’d generate anything from 350 to 450 super-lame horsepower. Ultimate answer: 550 hp—weak for 598 cubes,” Freiburger wrote.

He did, however, find the torque he was looking for.

“The engine never made less than 620 lb-ft on the way to a low-rpm horsepower peak of 4,700 rpm,” he said.

This amount of torque opens up ample opportunities for those looking for a different kind of build. Overall, Freiburger believes that cubic inches still rule and that their build amplifies the way Cadillac, Buick, and Pontiac were making big torque in the 1960s.

What’s more important to you: horsepower or torque? We’d love to know! Reach out to us on our Facebook page or shoot us an email at info@blueprintengines.com.