472 vs. 283...help me decide!

[CaptainAmerica]

I'm working on a '59 Chevy short fleetside that I'm building into a mild gasser style hot rod. It will be nose up, but not "street freak" high...I'm thinking a 1-2" lift int he front/stock in the rear. I believe the rearend has 3.90's. I originally came up with a '72 Cadillac 472 to be adapted to a Chevy TH400 tranny to power it but I can also buy a '64 Chevelle's 283 4bbl and 3 speed manual tranny for a song. My dilemma is this- WHICH ROUTE TO TAKE??

It pretty much comes down to the 472's massive torque/power vs the 283's ease of installation(100% bolt in) and that it's more authentic to the build style/nostalgic. I guess the truck will be worth more with a Chevy engine, but I'm not planning to sell so not sure how big of a deal that is.

I have the 472/TH400 already so that's a big plus. What do you guys think?

Thanks! -John