What does it need? How long since it has been run? I got mine running for a couple years with a good tune up and new fuel system but the car had set for years. It was weak though.
It sounds relatively similar. (This will sound like BS...but...) "A little old lady in WV had it". Grandma's car, she stopped driving and it sat a while ( 4dr Belvedere) Grandson is dropping a big block into it so pulled the motor.
I'm thinking a peek into the top end by puling valve covers and intake... then drop the pan and see if there are any surprises or debris built up.