Planning 318 build for daily driver

The '87 is the way to go IMO too. I would use the 1.88 intakes, and 1.60 (stock 360 sized) valves tho, and make sure the shop does a 5 angle performance valve job, so they get a litle unshrouding and a good throat angle on them. I'd also mill them a tad to get some decent compression, and run the thin head gaskets. If the engine runs and looks clean (like lower milage) leave the shortblock alone except for a new oil pick and HV pump. If it is a greasy mess, the cheapest way to do it IMO is to buy a crank kit (comes with matched bearings), have the block cleaned and honed, and the heads redone as suggested using springs to match the cam. I think running a stock 360 cam is a recipe for disappointment, unless you really like a smooth idle. It certainly wont make the 300hp figure (250 at the tires). The smaller Summit cam is cheap and will get the power higher, tho I still think it will fall short of 300. As a slightly more expensive option, the MP P4452757 (may make it) or P4452759 should definately make the hp number) could be used. Just degree them, and use the right springs. Gas milage comes from the engine cruising a the right rpm, witht he right carb, and being efficient in it's running. A "302" headed 318 with decent static squeeze, and a small to medium sized cam, will run great, and should get high teens milage if driven lightly even running a Holley carb.