[AmericanPie]

Thanks for all the replies so quickly. It sounds like a "385" series engine might be the best way for me to go; especially a 460 which would probably rev nicely. While I can appreciate the 427 (hey, I grew up in the '60s) and the torque of a 514, originality isn't as important as building a reliable, up-to-date, fire-breathing motor. From what I've been reading, though, each of the factory crate motors leaves something to be desired (low compression, mild cam, cast crank, etc.). I guess that means I'd have to start building the motor from scratch, right? Or is there a factory motor that would be a cost-effective starting point, without having to replace too many components?

And thanks, Al; I WILL search the archives for big-block info. . . good advice!