carb question

You are going to get a thousand different opinions on what carb to put on.

Isn't the only difference between an automatic carb and a four speed carb is that the auto carb has an attachment point for the kickdown?

1st sentence... OH so true!

2nd sentence.... No. *I don't think so.* Manual trans carbs are normally jetted richer I believe.

But regulardless, the carb should be sized to the engines performance, intended useage, and to a lesser extent, the trans. With that said, has the engine been modified and to what level? What is the gear ratio.

The old trick was to swap on the 440 HP AVS carb rated at 750. This is a good CFM for street performance with or without modifications. (On the AVS, after primary re jetting, delay the adjustable secondary side properly through trial and error. It is actually easy and can be done in a few minutes.)

There was a mention of an 800 Thunder. IMO, to much. The primary side is to large unless the engine is way hopped up.
Then there was the mention of a TQ @'850. Even though it is 50 CFM larger than the AVS, the spreadbore design allows it to work excellent.but tuning parts are not exactly a phone call away.
It will require a spread bore intake as well or a spacer for which you may or may not have room for.

No matter the style/brand of carb you choose, a 750 CFM is what I myself would look at.
If your street bound, the basic Holley or Carter would be just fine. I myselfove a well tuned double pumper with a manual trans. That would be a 4150 Holley.