[DetroitDan]

I still havent heard mention of a budget here. I have to admit I'm a little skeptical in that regard, OP kind of sounds like a kid, and like he's starting with a $500 truck and wants to take on the world. I only say this because I sounded like that 25 years ago. Hey, correct me if I'm wrong. If I am wrong, then my vote would go to a healthy big block, but a 383 is also a great choice. Problem is you're always going to have somebody beat you, whether it's a late model diesel with a tune and mods, or a ricer. And if you do beat them they'll just say they aren't wasting as much gas as you. It's all been done before.

A better solution would be a complete tune up on what you got (it may not be as tired as you think) then throw a set of headers on it. You can make it run good and sound nice for reasonably short money, it will feel reasonably strong for a daily driver, and will sound like more than it really is. Next, save up for some chrome valve covers and a chrome air cleaner.