I would think that a 440 would be plentyfor that car... I have a 408 stroker in my Duster and it is all that I can handle esp. when it goes sideways. My reaction time has decreased over the years and I sometimes scare myself in a fun way.. These A bodies come around real quick... And small blocks wind up quick too... I'm glade to hear you didn't ruin the original hood.. The car is sweet either way bad assed or original...Bill:)