[blykins]

Yep, the look is a big part of it. You are probably going for a more period-correct look than Bill.

If I were going to go all-out for appearance, I would build a true 427, using a factory S/O block, iron heads, factory intake, etc. I've done a couple of 427 inch engines, and they have all been around the 500-525 hp mark. Even did a 427 with C3 LR heads and a 2x4 LR intake that made 510 hp and 511 lb-ft of torque.