So you want 2 go Big block...Read this first!

As far as a small block costing roughly the same as a big block swap. In MY CASE, the difference would wind up only being the cost of the engine and related accessories. The rest of the build would consist of exactly the same parts (well the transmission would be different, but cost the same). In my thirty years in this hobby I have never recommended a 340 for a car that is not an original 340 car (although I did get a good deal on the 340 that's in my GTS). The reason is simply cost and a 360 is a more cost effective approach to the same end.

So, with that said. You can still find a 360 for a $150 (or thereabouts) at a self serve wrecking yard. Not many 440s left, except in the motorhomes. I think a 440 engine kit is a little more than a comparable 360 kit, but machining will cost the same. The 440 gets more expensive if you're buying from another individual.