how a drag-race engine is loaded in the real world when you dump the clutch or load it up against the torque converter. Under these conditions, using 93-octane gas with 36-degrees of ignition lead, the engine churned out a whopping 538.5 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, and it developed a stout 554.2 hp at 5,900. The animal made over 500 lb-ft from 3,900 to 5,800 rpm, and it exceeded the 400 lb-ft mark through 6,300…definitely as advertised—and competitive with many a big-block! If you want to be the torque of the town, ASE’s complete 401 crate engine, assembled using all-new parts and carrying a 90-day warranty, goes out the door for $7,500 complete, less headers and a water pump.