390 vs 408

Valleyant said
... Budget is a concern although if I do a build it will get aluminum heads.

I understand the budget but wonder why you say it will have aluminum heads? Good cast iron heads are available that may save you $ in the long run depending on future plans for motor

Valleyant said
... Ocassional strip ( 1/4 mile) outings but mainly a street car. Automatic for now but it will probably be converted to 4 or 5 speed down the road sometime. Planning sub-frame connectors and front disc brakes. ...Need your take on these stroker engines for a nice full interior/resto mod Duster

Very similar build to my Demon with stroker 408. With your goals I wouldn't worry about horsepower numbers as much as budget and parts selection. Either motor will get you in the ball park. I used a 360 and 308 heads because I already owned them (RHS heads were not yet available) and an old dual plane LD340 intake. I would do it all again, but change to RHS heads.

This of course is my opinion, and worth every penny. :thumblef: