how can i get 400hp out of a 318?

A true 400 h.p engine will haul the mail and show in the e.t, but only if the rest of the drivetrain is taken care of as well. The transmission,converter,rear gear and all the suspension need work before the car will e.t to it's potential.

You can throw all the money you have at the motor but if the rest of the car aint set up your gonna get your *** handed to ya!

Absolutely correct, ET is chassis/converter/gear/etc.

MPH will tell you the story on engine HP. Ever seen cars run crazy MPH for the et? Like 14.30 at 105 ( could be 12.50-12.70), high 11's at 130 (10.10ish), 11.20 at 128 (10.40-10.50). Those numbers reflect a rotten chassis with a decent engine hp.