Just a few questions from someone new to the scene

[Calm_asa_bomb]

Ok, I'm a new member to lateral-g and I am also very new to the muscle car and hot rod scene. I just want to get a few questions out of the way and start on my first project ASAP. I know I’m going to be working on a Camaro and I’m trying to get info on the different types of engines. What are the pros and cons of choosing a Small-Block, Big-Block, or LS engine? What major choices in design will greatly affect reliability and fuel efficiency? Also, how expensive is it to have a top chopped?