The only way you get 700-800 torque out of a big block is to turbocharge. The 502 crate engine has a high of 560 torque so 454's are wimps for sure. Combine this with 8-9 mpg and maybe a diesel isn't so bad. If one stays gas and turbocharges then an LSX crate engine makes 835hp and 760 torque plus will get double the fuel mileage of a big block.
