I'd like to get some recommendations about a good engine combination that is very streetable (pump gas, slightly aggressive idle). My car currently has the original 383 in it, but was considering replacing it with a 440 or possibly a 440 stroker kit (500 c.i) available from either PAW or 440 source. Does anyone have experience with PAW? I've heard good things about 440 source, but I need pretty much the complete engine including the block so I'm not sure if this falls within my budget of $5-$6K.
What would be a good combination for a mostly street driven car with light strip use. My goal is to have a car that idles well with enough vacuum for power brakes, stays below 6000 rpm and would be capable of 1/4 mile times in the high 12's, low 13's. If I choose a 500 kit with a 9.5:1 c.r. and mild cam, what would be a good starting point for the carb, intake, cam and heads? Current driveline is a stock A-727 (don't know what the stall rating is) with 3.91:1 suregrip.
Aluminum heads are a bit pricey for my budget so I'm probably going to stick with a rebuilt cast iron head with the hardened seats. I'm thinking an Edelbrock performer intake with matching cam and an Edelbrock 750 AVS or Performer. I probably will also put headers on. The 440 will probably be more than adequate and perhaps the 500 is overkill. Pricewise, it's not much different. I'm looking to use mostly off the shelf parts, nothing that is custom. Suspension will also need some work. Sorry for the long post, but this will be my first engine rebuild so any advice is much appreciated.