Posible swap for my 273 Barracuda 1966

Let's start with economics.....
1: How bad are the taxes/custom fees ,to order in?
2:Do you have a locally reliable machinist? This aftermarket parts stuff,just " doesn't magically fit". If you don't know see a local machinist,or buy a crate engine.

That being said,I like the stick shift idea. A mild 318,with some headwork and a mild cam can crank. Extra bonus points on solids. Speed costs money,how fast do you want to go? Something to think about.