A cheap, powerful candidate would be a 4.8 or 5.3 and transmission from a 99'+ GM truck. An engine and transmission from a "sports car" tends to command a higher price and requires premium fuel.
Just my $0.10
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1972 SS 454 Chevelle LS5/M21/12 bolt 3.73 posi
1969 Malibu COPO L72/M20/12 bolt 3.31 posi
1968 Malibu LQ9/4L80E/12 bolt 3.73 posi
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