1966 Plymouth Barracuda

Since you have a 66 Barracuda, you have gauges. Vacuum, water temp, oil pressure, speedometer, ammeter, fuel, possibly a factory tach? What more do you need? A 318 will make plenty of bulletproof power for an early A and their small rear wheel wells. Anywhere from a cam and small 4 barrel to a full up 340 style conversion, 360 heads pistons cam valvetrain carb intake and distributor. I'd say get it up and running as fast as you can and enjoy it. Then fix the cosmetics as time and money allow. Involve the kids with what they might be interested in. Cleaning, replacing carpet, washing, routine maintenance.