So let's say you are going to build a small block and the most important goal is reliability. Say your daughter will be driving it. I have a 70 Duster and 69 Dart and both are pretty much blank slates. Both are 318s/ Here are a few of my thoughts.
mini-starter
Toyota alternator
MSD ignition and distributor
fuel injection? Not sure of type
bypass alternator gauge, continuous high-current wire thru bulkhead fitting.
What would you do? Say expense is no object.