77 360 vs 86 360

Isn't an '86 a roller engine?

That would sew it up for me.

Heads are better, cam being a roller is a winner and the profiles can be custom ordered with a quick phone call and at no extra charge or a minor amount more at worst.

A head milling would improve the ratio quick and easy.
New heads, like the Indy X head would be a serious homerun!