This is why I'm building a sedan with a heater. We have some die hards that will show up most any non-raining Sunday morning. And yes, compared to a flathead with a 39 trans this combination is rocket science. 40 year old rocket science but certainly not prehistoric. I think I'm realistic in my wants. I know it's a compromise. That's what I'm trying to figure out. This is not something that you can test on a dyno. Much of it is subjective. Everybody will have a different opinion on what sounds good and when the drop off in MPGs and driveability become a drawback. That's why the more opinions the better. It's not a race car. I was trying to find a 368 Lincoln Y block but I couldn't p*** this deal up for the price. Not the most desirable FE but life is just one compromise after another. Thanks for all the input. I bet there are a lot of people that are seeking the same compromises.