I’m an idiot…….

[WSSix]

Hear me out. This is a malaise era car where smaller displacement engines ruled, fuel mileage was most important, and any "performance" was almost laughable compared to the eras before and after. So why not at least keep the theme of "smaller"? The Vortec 4.2 is no joke of an engine and can be had for pennies. You could also consider a Ecotec with the turbo not the blower. My buddy's Sky Redline is a hoot to drive with the six speed. 3.8 V6 with the Eaton can be built for good power. You'll have a good bit of custom work to incorporate any of these choices. All three of them can build good, reliable, and fun power for driving all the time. Putting a manual behind the 4.2 and 3.8 should be possible.

If you want simple and V8, I don't blame you. 383, 5.3, 6.0, anything but a 305, lol, will work well and sound great.

Good luck!