I could use your opinion

If you're going to all the trouble of changing the engine, drop in a 318. Not a 273, 340, or 360, but a 318. A 273 will cost too much to rebuild and you can get the same gas mileage with a 318. Save the 340 or 360 for when you seriously go racing. For everyday driving with a little zip it don't get much better than a mild 318 with an automatic in a light little A body. If you can, find one out of an '86 or '87 Fifth Avenue/Diplomat/Gran Fury to get the 302 heads. They are going for around a C note here. A rebuild kit, a trip to the machine shop, a cam in the 250-260 degree range, with a 4 barrel intake and your 390 Holley,and your power range is met with a little to spare. You can use manifolds with a 2 1/2" single exhaust and your 7 1/4" with 3.23 gears will last for a while yet. Sounds like heresy, but that's what I would do,and then drive the wheels off Victoria. :cheers: