1974 Duster Question - Leave Original?

Guys,

I wanted to pose a question and get your feedback as you are the most knowledgeable Mopar guys around.

Here is my story: I have 2 Mopar A-bodies - a 1972 Dart Swinger that is in pieces - Stripped down to the shell. Over the past several years, I have been rebuilding components in my spare time in preparation for rebuilding the car. I have many parts complete and ready to go, but I am stuck on the body work. It needs the usual rear quarters, general body work & paint. I just haven't had the time or energy to get that part of the project going.

That being said, I also have a 1974 318 Duster that is a great survivor. 318 car with air (that I had fixed). Interior is perfect. Car just needs some bodywork done on the right quarter panel that needs to be redone and it really needs a repaint. Everything works and I would not be afraid to drive this car anywhere.

They both need body work and paint.

So here is the question: Do focus on the Duster? Do I drop the 340 / 4 speed set up in it with the 8.75 Sure-grip, bucket seats, etc.? Or do I build both and put the Edelbrock top end kit on the 318 with a sure grip diff in the 8.25" rear end?

I am stuck because I like the originality of the Duster, but at the end of the day it's an 318 Duster driver - not too exciting. Keeping the car original seems important. I feel like it should be my main focus with this car, but I am not sure that it should be. What do you guys think? Let me know.