Searching for 84/85 Avanti with 300 + HP

[Dale Webb]

Want to build or purchase an 84 or 85 Avanti that has an engine producing over 300 HP. Preferable with FI.

[ronmanfredi]

Those came with 305's, either 150 or 185 HP.  You need to find one with a plan of changing out the engine and removing the engine computer/carb/distributor.  Also, the trans will need an electrical modification to turn on the lock up converter in 4th gear since the old engine computer use to do that. (most trans shops can do this if you don't want to)

 

[Geoff]

Your best bet is to buy a slightly rundown 1984 or 1985 and build it how you want. For your stated power goals I would look to 1980s L98 or 1990s LT1. They have the same motor mount locations as those Avanti's 305, so are more plug & play friendly than jumping into the post-1997 LS/LT engines. And hey! 45 more cubic inches while you're at it.

The L98 would need a little help to hit or exceed 300 horsepower, though it is attainable. If I am recalling correctly from my Corvette forum days, it takes an intake manifold & cam change.