I would agree except for the price of gas. A 305 tbi or better yet tpi is a good choice due to the gas milage. A 305 with a 700r4 would work well. It has a nice first gear and a tall 4th gear. Twenty plus miles per gallon are possible with this set up. I have never seen a 261 with a carb come anywhere near this. My last truck was a S10 that I put a 350 in. Yes it was fast, but the 15 mpg was a rude awakening.
Rick In Va