Joseph,
This is an off topic answer but if your open to it I'll throw it on the table. How about an LS series Chevy engine? We hardly ever use a 350 anymore, may two in the last three years, because the the LS2 and LS3 engines are just awesome engines. Out of the box they are in the 400hp range and with little modification can be in the 600hp range AND GET 25 MPG. This is less costly than a 350 that even approaches this power. They are durable, long lasting, very light, and have a huge aftermarket parts and support. The school kids in a video set one in a 57 Chevy and had it running in 45 minutes. You have to add a week to that time in our shop but it shows everything is available for a straight forward swap. What brought this reply to mind is when you stated there is still a little hot rod blood in your old veins.
