My plan of action would be to really really pay attention to the state of tune of the carb and ignition timing ago start with. The known use of 3.23 gears on a stock tire size (which is what now?) limits cam size for a hood daily driver with pep. Before we even discuss a cam, you can do well without it. This is y list of suggested bolt on parts.
First decide on what carb your going to use. A 318 really needs no more than 600 cfm’s at your level. The exception would be a TQ. Just use the small primary version.
If your not going to use a cast iron factory intake manifold for the 4bbl. upgrade, look to the Edelbrock Performer. There about as equal as you can get. And a good few pounds lighter.
I like an Accel distributor or equal to customize the timing curve in event yours does t have a vacuum advance canister or is just pain old shot out.
Couple it with a multi spark box & upgraded coil. Then open up the plug gap to approximately.050.
Headers aren’t really necessary and there a royal PIA to install. A good dual exhaust system even off of the stock manifolds will be really good. A set of earlier manifolds flow best.
More expensive upgrades.
You have a low compression engine. This hurts in a small way but almost guarantees the use of 87 octane or lower. This also has an effect of how large of a cam you can install with good results. Milling the heads, upgrading to the next valve size up (360 valves) and some bowl work helps nicely in the power department but is expensive to almost the point of why do it when Edelbrock or SpeedMaster heads are available for a few bucks more and return more power per dollar spent. Then add a Summit Racing header and 2-1/2 exhaust kit combo.
This is a really nice power package combo when used with upgraded heads and camshaft!
Keep cam timing below 218@050 or lower. This will work with the stock converter, rear gear and tire size very well.
Been there done that and it was fun.
