[496fe]

There are few auto quandries older than this. Everything in motor building is about compromises. It sounds like devotion to original specs is the single most important aspect of your engine design. That would beg the question of why a Genesis block?

The original 427 motor was not a very practical street motor - that's one of the reasons Shelby started putting 428's in (also the 428's were cheaper and more plentiful).

All the reputable engine builders on this forum would be happy to discuss your goals and recommend engine packages. Unless you are going to be doing your own wrenching and machining, the money is well spent with them. They know which components work the best with each other to achieve what you want. And they don't make all that much profit (except Roush).

Your questions suggest that you are at the very beginning of your search and decisions. You have decided on the correct platform. The FE motor is physically smaller and lighter than the 429/460, yet for a few bucks, can make some real power.

Welcome to the wonderful world of the FE.

Brian