Nah mate, the E49 was a lot quicker. The E55 was choked and ran in the 15's in factory trim. Lots of potential. But with a stock auto (no manual), an exhaust like a drinking straw and no external, go fast breathing bits. It was, well a little asthmatic. 15.5 was about the best. Still on par with an auto Phase 2 but. But what potential! All the great features of the LA 340 just waiting to be unlocked. Steel crank, 4.04" bore, internally balanced, 318 stroke, 2.02" valves, rev, rev rev!
The E49 was in another class altogether though. Power, acceleration, braking, handling. This machine had the measure of every V8 muscle car made here, including the PH III. Not to mention the majority of American big blocks. It was the fastest accelerating 6 cyl in the world for many years, and the fastest in Aus for 27 years! Until the VS 5.7L GTS.
That said. I would still find it hard to pass up an E55 for an E49. I loves me 8's! I would but, especially an E49 big tank!!! It remains the number 1 old school muscle car this country ever produced. Just Google how it dominated the NZ tracks right through the 1970's. The V8's including the PH III HO's, Stang's and all manner of Generals couldn't hold a candle to it.
Back to the thread (sorry all!).
