Which GM crate engine would you buy?

[67ChevyRedneck]

So the engine in my truck is heading south. I think the rings are getting bad along with some other things. Still very drivable, but I have a crapload of OT saved up at work (probably over 120 hours worth by next year) and I'm going to cash it out for a new GM crate engine.

I'm confused about which to get. There seems to be two Gen 1 "generic" engines available.

There's this one

These are excellent entry-level performance engines for older cars, trucks, and street rods. All of the parts in these engines are brand new. These GM Performance Part Goodwrench 5.7L/350 c.i.d. have approximately 8.5:1 compression with 250 hp at 4,300 rpm and 350 ft./lbs. of torque at 3,600 rpm. These crate engines have 4.00 in. bore and 3.47 in. stroke, with 4-bolt mains and two-piece rear main seals. Camshaft specifications are .383 in. intake lift and .401 in. exhaust lift. Open duration is 194 degree intake and 202 degree exhaust at .050 in. with a 112-degree lope separation. Cylinder heads are cast iron with 1.94 in. intake valves and 1.50 in. exhaust valves, with 76cc combustion chambers, and 7-bolt style exhaust flanges. These engines include painted valve covers, oil pan, and timing covers. They are drilled for both left hand and right hand dipsticks.

and this one:

These GM Performance Parts 350 c.i.d. 290 hp engine assemblies are the most popular GM Performance Parts crate engines because no one else can deliver as much performance for this kind of value. GM Performance parts believes that everyone should be able to afford a high quality GM V8 without going broke. These engines are the answer to those car crafters who demand maximum return on their money. But, just because they're affordable, don't think that they're stones. These 350/290 engines deliver approximately 290 hp at 5,100 rpm, and a solid 326 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3,750 rpm. With those kinds of numbers, they're the perfect replacement engines for the millions of GM vehicles that shipped with a small block. Got a tired, old Chevy that needs a lift? Then these crate engines are just right for you. GM Performance parts 350 c.i.d. 290 hp engine assemblies start with a 4-bolt main bearing block, aluminum pistons, and a hydraulic camshaft. Then they're topped with cast-iron cylinder heads that are designed to be extremely durable, while still providing good airflow through the engine.

The first one is around $1,700 and the second is around $2,000 (summit prices) I know I can get them cheaper from a local dealer (or even fleabay), that's not my concern. Which engine is better to get and who has one?

It seems to me that the first motor is cheaper and although it makes less HP, it makes its HP at a lower RPM (I've never had my truck revved past 4.5K before), and it has more torque?

My truck is not nor will be any kind of a racetruck. I just hope the extra power won't hurt my 700R4

Thoughts, Opinions?

Here's a link:

http://store.summitracing.com/egnsea...nresults=false