What I like about the 6.1 is it makes a good, basic hot rod engine. No MDS; no VVT; the cam is simple and basic; good heads; block is beefed up a little more than the 5.7; no complex tuning to deal with (because no MDS / VVT). My original intent was a street / strip car. The E.T. estimates for the car @ 3,200 lbs. is easily in the 10s. However, I'm getting a bit old, with a couple of health issues now (and the car is still not done), so I just plan to cruise the car and show it a bit with the HC engine (for WOW factor) and enjoy my retirement.
Keep this engine in mind. I have big bucks invested in it but will sell at a good price for the right buyer.