I found the 427 engine to be severely underutilized for most driving. It wants to run higher RPMs that you can't get on the street (unless you only drive in 2nd
). Consider getting a small block car (ie, one based on the CSX2000 series) with a 289 (or 302). The engine will give you all the horsepower you need in that small body. The FIA style will give you the "hips". Only downside is that the roll bar terminates in the passenger foot box but that's OK since after you give rides to your friend they won't ride again anyway (the passenger side is notoriously uncomfortable) and you'll spend most of your time alone.