Check out the H.A.M.B., look in the Tech archive section for the 5spd swap. I know that's what folks seem to be using, not sure what it takes to get it done though.
3 kind of cars that in my book are fun,
Free beaters. Even better if 4wd or all wheel drive.
Purpose built race cars
Basic old timey simple cars. I drove a 55 Plymouth Savoy with a flathead 6 as a daily for a few years. One of the best cars I've owned, dated my wife in that car....ahhh, good times.
Dan