L78 vs COPO in 69 ('real' engine horsepower ratings)

[black69]

Originally Posted by BARRY

HI back in the day i owned a 1969 Camaro gold copo and my friend had a 1969 Camaro 396-375 hp we raced the copo would always be 2 car lengths ahead ... both cars m21 trans and 410 rear.

This is a great data point. Did the 396 have cowl induction like the 427? Most would not have, which only adds to the beating the copo would have dealt out. I am assuming both cars had the same setup between them (headers or stock, same 'racing' fuel, same size tires). Very cool info.