[cubber]

I think it might be hard to get that kind of mileage (16-20) with a carbed v8. You could get one of those GM Performance crate motors, the 260 hp one is like $1500, and 290hp is like $2000. Both of those would use your intake, carb, and accessories you already have. I would also consider gping to a 3.08 gear (was standard on most v8 auto trans trucks). I have a 3.08 behind my th350 and 383 and its got all the low end I need. Also, if you switch to a 700R4 trans, the first is a little lower than a th350. We put the 260 hp crate in a buddy of mines 72 and it had lots of pep with an Edelbrock Performer intake and carb. I think that bolted to a 700r4 to a 3.08 rear with a locker would be ideal. You would be getting the top end of possible mpg's, and still have something that was fun at red lights!