I've been thinking about putting a Northstar in a four-wheel-drive S-10 frame using the all-wheel-drive transfer case from an Astro van and putting that whole combination under one of my AD trucks.
A friend has a low mileage mid-90's DeVille that has been crunched and which I can get cheap.
I have seen a Northstar with the front drive stuff under the front of a '53 Ford panel truck. That truck was setup for wheelchair access through the rear doors to allow a paraplegic drive a hot rod.
I think using the Northstar is a fun idea, and one I think a patient guy who doesn't mind spending a little money could make work.
But if your first concern is budget I'd say run the 350 instead.
