Off Center vs On Center block pros/cons

[gordyzx9r]

Would like to get a fresh perspective on this rather than 10 year old threads on the other forums.

What are the pros/cons of an off center block versus an on center block.

I have an opportunity to purchase some stage 2 off center blocks.

From what I remember, the off center allows you to swap out parts interchangeabl y with a stock 109, cylinder banks were shifted fore/aft, ring seals seal better with an on center, on center can see upwards of 1500HP while an off center is around 1200HP, and on center parts are crazy expensive compared to off center.

But that's about all I remember. 

I'm not looking for that kind of HP.  But I am interested if getting these blocks would be worth considering and aside from power, what's the benefit?  Other than being able to gloat you have a stage 2 motor.   

[Steve Wood]

You pretty well summed it up.  I would stick to the off center blocks for a driver.  Billy Anderson would be the opinion I seek.

[278CIKILLER]

The 153 stage II block are the one's you can use on the 109 parts.

[TexasT]

If I were in the market to make four digit power I think I would go directly to ta performance and proceed from there. Unless you like the nostalgia aspect of the Buick motorsports stuff I would think it is worn out or why would these people be unloading it?

[Forzfed]

Sometimes you can get a good deal on a Stage II.  My buddy bought a complete on center running high compression and carb complete for $3500 about 10 years ago.  He now has it turboed with NOS making close to 1000hp on a 4x4 mudder!

[gordyzx9r]

If I were in the market to make four digit power I think I would go directly to ta performance and proceed from there. Unless you like the nostalgia aspect of the Buick motorsports stuff I would think it is worn out or why would these people be unloading it?

I'm not sure how much use they've seen, they've been in crates for as long as I can remember since '98.