[RocktimusPryme]

For value you just aren't going to get there IMO. The factory heads on on the gen III motors are ridiculous compared to the old stuff. And while its a simplification, in general if you have better heads you have a faster car. It is depressing to have thousands of dollars into a vintage Pontiac and know that for less than $1000 you could go pull a used 6.0 do a cam swap and basically be making the same power. Not only that, but even with a 150,000 mile head start, the 6.0 might still outlast the old motor before it needs a rebuild.

You can certainly build vintage iron to compete, but its not going to be at the same price point. Being able to use used common factory components in place of expensive speed parts changes the game.