Not sure whether this helps with the engine choice, but although I have a Chev, there's something about the sound of a Ford V8 that has always sounded tougher to me. There I've said it!
My L98 feels and sounds more like a large displacement motorbike engine in the way it spins up. Probably something to do with the cam and heads or the firing order, very smooth but lacking the balls of an old school engine in terms of street presence. A little too civilised if you like.