building a long distance touring car

str12-340 said
I'm building a 1970 Dart specifically to use for long distance touring, like taking 101 down the coast to Rt66 across to Chicago then hitting the Nats and Chryslers at Carlisle and then doing it in reverse the next year. I'm trying to figure out the best small block to use in front of a 4 speed overdrive automatic. I'd like to get some decent gas mileage (20-24?) but don't want it to be a dog either (the low 1st gear in the trans will help). So throw out your thoughts, please! I've considered everything from a crate 408 to a 273 power pack style motor.

Did the same with my 68 Barracuda. I went with a 73 360 with a 340 resto 4spd cam, and 727. I used M body spindles and brakes in the front, with RMS upper arms. Have an 8 1/4 with 3.21s in the back with 11 inch drums. Put A/C and cruise control on it plus a nice stereo. Finished it in 07 and have close to 35k miles on it. If I set the cruise at 65-67, I get between 19 and 20 mpgs. Also put fuel injection on it three years ago.