I would go with a TH350 Automatic, or a Tremec 5 spd std
On your 283 simple power adders can be true dual exhaust, good dual plane intake, such as an Edlbrock and a Holley 4 barrel.
This will wake it up, but not a throw you back in the seat type of deal.
If you want more then go with a Isky or Crane cam, and some good heads, but keep in mind if your bottom end has a lot of mileage on it, it possibly will shorten the life of the motor as this will raise compression.
