The terms "383" and "383 stroker" generally refer to two different types of engines:
383: A 383 engine typically refers to a Chevrolet V8 engine with a displacement of 383 cubic inches (6.3 liters). It is created by increasing the bore size of a standard 350 small-block engine to accommodate larger pistons, resulting in increased displacement. The stroke length (the distance the piston travels in the cylinder) remains the same as the 350 engine. The 383 engine is a popular choice among automotive enthusiasts seeking to upgrade the performance of their vehicles.
383 Stroker: A 383 stroker engine is a modified version of the 383 engine mentioned above. The term "stroker" refers to an engine that has been modified to increase its stroke length, resulting in greater displacement. In the case of a 383 stroker, the stroke length is increased by using a longer crankshaft, which allows the pistons to travel farther within the cylinders. This increased stroke length, combined with the larger bore size, results in a higher displacement than a standard 383 engine. The additional displacement typically leads to increased torque and horsepower output, providing improved performance.
In summary, the key difference between a 383 engine and a 383 stroker engine lies in the stroke length. A standard 383 engine retains the stroke length of a 350 engine, while a 383 stroker engine features a modified stroke length to achieve greater displacement and performance.