[bobcowan]

Power and reliability are generally opposing forces. It's a very carefull balancing act. Build in a lot of power, and reliability starts to drop.

Don't worry about building to a specific power number. Instead, build in the parts you want for a solid reliable engine, and let the power numbers fall where they may. For a fun relaibele tinker-resistant engine, I'd use a 408 (not a 427), 10:1'ish compression, Hydraulic roller cam, EFI, and electronic ignition. Turn the key and drive away, just like any ford Mustang.

With a solid engine, matching drive line, and a fairly simple build, these cars are almost as reliable as anything off the Ford assembly line. All they really need is routine maintenance and a good cleaning once in a while.

As for a builder, I don't have any experiance there.