Suggestions for a 318 build
IMO, honestly, seriously, stop looking at 300 HP and look for 400 to start with. After all, you said;
but enough to kick some import butt and some modern day rides.
Are you willing to do;
A high stall converter and gear ratio?
Add an overdrive for cruising if need be? As in the rear gear to high for your taste.
You do realize modern day rides have every advantage over you except cubic inchs and they have to pass emmisions. Many of these modern day car, performance sedans, will run mid 13's no questions asked or breaking a sweat doing so.
(OH, by the way... nice sig. I agree! Anybody can help pay for what they don't like about my car as well. Break your bank I will. Ha ha ha)