Hi,
I've got nothing techinal to add to your post - but I'm a young bloke too (27) and funnnily enough starting a 302 build! Just put the deposit down on the car today. I'd like to go bigger but emmissions laws are strict over here, so I figure a supercharger or stroker kit + heads intake ect will bring the car up to speed. After getting it licenced, of course.
Anyway good luck with your research, and I hope your plans to build one work out one day soon
Maybe we can start an owners under 40 minority section!!