Reality check: A body rear ends

to me anything 8.25 and up is great.

The o.p. is absolutely correct that 8.25 is over looked. 1 5/8 pinion diameter .....after 74 it was used by the factory in 360 cars.

8.25 would work just fine ....if you can find an 8 3/4 even better. A dana would the ultimate if you can afford it.