354 Hemi Good? Bad? Ugly?

Single carb, 9-10.5 compression, decent exhaust and the right cam can get you in the 400 HP neighborhood. I have a 56 331 Hemi on the stand now that should be in the 350 range. Interesting engines from the past. Reliable, durable and parts still readily available. If it does not have the Chevy water pump conversion, I highly recommend it. It's a PITA trying to find an early Hemi water pump. I have the Hot Heads timing cover on mine which adapts a small Chevy water pump. 65Valiant is another member here who has a 354 in his......wait for it........65 Valiant. lol It's a dang nice car too.