[markjohnson]

I think it'd be neat to put the original engine on an engine stand and detail it on there for safekeeping and a possible future sale with the car. In the meantime, I really like that GM ZZ383 Crate Engine that's rated at 425 HP and 460 FT.LBS. of Torque. That's Big Block power in a small block size & weight for about $5200. For a few G's more, you could purchase a 427 CID Small Block from a few different reputable, well-known shops. Now that would be a lot of fun! You could actually paint it up and detail it to look very similar to the original engine but you'd have that iconic "427 Vette" that you'd get to puff your chest and say when someone asks you what you have at home or under the hood!