newbie - 72 Gold Duster

Hello all - just purchased a semi-project 72 Duster - six cylinder. Always been a mopar fan, first mopar was a 1969 1/2 M code super bee owned in the 70's and 80's - should have kept it. The 72 has a very solid body, runs and drives but needs ball joints, interior cosmetics, etc. Still has original paint, needs trunk pan and a little rust in the usual spot on quarter panels but that is it. Question is, should I make a good driver of it or work toward installing a V8 - really leaning toward a V8 but realize that requires starting at the back and going forward. Any insights would be appreciated. I look forward to this forum for resources and advice and hope to contribute. Thanks!