A lot of good suggestions but being a stovebolt lover, I would opt for the 292 with flat top pistons or at least low dish, decked block and a little head shaving. Put in a modest cam, arp rod bolts, balanced and slightly larger intakes for breathability (1.84) and you've got lots of torque with good performance with reliability and ease of service. SBC are so common place, Yawn, but a modest built 292 is another matter. You can put in a 4bbl, one single, two singles or three with cast iron headers. Three would not lack for anything and you won't be disappointed driving it. Just my idea. The 305 is just a small bored 350. Same stroke. Some headwork and a Crower Baja Beast cam and it will run good. 350s are thirsty. Have just had one pulled out and I still have another one in my 90 van. It gets 18-19 hwy which is not bad. The other one got 14-15 and 11-12 city with FI. It is in mint condition. I'm the second owner and sold it to a friend who is feeding a 454 at 8 mpg city right now with a 5 speed. I'd sell the sbc to someone who wants one. Think about the 292. My Dad got 20 on the hwy with a stock engine and a 3 speed stick and hwy gears on his 67 Chevy 3/4 ton 2wd.
