The new motors are just so much lighter because they have aluminum blocks. That and the injection allows for easy tuning. Both can make big power with the right parts. The big block would be ideal for a power to weight reclass for time trials because NASA only looks at the hp number and not the torque. Most small block crate motors and LS motors are around 400-500 lb-ft of torque while the big blocks are around 600-700 lb-ft. A big block with aluminum heads weighs about 120 lbs more than an LS1 (520 to 400).
Are you handy with carburetors? That's my only struggle, good carb guys are getting few and far between, and I don't know enough to keep adjusting on the fly. Carb's aren't exactly "set it and forget it". lol
Or, maybe just a fuel injection kit for a SBC or BBC?
Shut it...