s10 is most popular. https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...-rearend-in-my-52-chevrolet-styleline.396656/
You can use a 1970-81 Camaro/Firebird rear. (55 1/4 " wide) I used a 1968-75 Nova rear on my 50. (54 1/4 " wide) But I'm running 10" wide rear wheels. Either set up requires new spring perches to locate the rear on the springs correctly.
The '51 leaf springs have an offset spring pin, so you'll need custom blocks to center the wheel in the wheelwell when using a later rear axle.
I have installed 66 -67 Nova , Maverick , 57-59 Ford , 55-57 chev was probably easiest . My choice today Ranger 8.8
TCI makes a rear spring kit that mounts the axles where they belong. The springs are a little wider and you can then add traction bars or Cal-tracks if you want more traction. The early Camaro and 2nd Gen Nova are the correct width. Axle flange to axle flange, my 51 is 60 inches. My 10 bolt I originally was going to put in measured the same out of a 68 Camaro. The 9 inch I'm now installing is a little narrower to put more tire under the rear. Pick what ever rear end works for your future plans. The GM 10 bolts work for most moderate hot rodding. A 12 bolt GM can handle more power. The S10 would be a happy medium and a Ford 9 inch will handle almost anything you can throw at it if it's built right. What are your plans for the car?