340ci vs 360ci engine
Build what you can afford. It sounds like a well thought out 360 would suit your needs better. They have more low end torque, which is better for getting you off the line faster, without having to use a stall convertor.
If you have the money to shell out on a 340, more power to ya! They rev to the moon, and are a ton of fun to drive. But really, how often can you rev a street car to 7 grand, without drawing a bunch of unwanted attention (police).