Just to be clear... and fair... you cant have your cake and eat it too....
I'm willing to bet $25k FE build, is typically an all ALU build (block, heads, and intake). These DO weigh in at similar figures to your standard small block build.
That said for $25K you could probably build an all ALU SBF... then you'd have your weight advantage, but not your $$$ advantage.
My personal Engine choice would match my choice in kit.
Kirkham, Shelby: FE All ALU
ERA: FE, 428 or 390 stroker, may be even All Alu.
SPF, Hurricane, FFR, multitude of others: SBF
SPF, Backdraft: MOD motor. Maybe even electric (NO kidding!).
That all said - If my bonnet had a Scoop, I'd have an suitable intake that could be seen peeking through that gap
I LOVE that look!