[fostereast]

One thing to consider, start with a 390 build, you can keep it reasonably inexpensive if you go for 1hp per inch, and your in the game with the right engine family in the right car. I would not even stroke it. use as many stock pieces that check out at the machinist. Everything should hold up to 400HP.

It will be plenty fast enough, and anything like the transmission, motor mounts etc.. will trasfer over to the 427 when your ready.

I have an SOHC, but believe it or not I will probably start with a 390 also, just to work out all the bugs and get everything in the car tuned up. I'll use cast iron heads and Intake to get the 390 weight very similar to the SOHC. I'll have the manufacturer set up the footboxes and anything else for the SOHC, so it will fit when I am ready.