New Build Advice Needed

Ha. That’s a fact!! I’m just updating to some more modern developments in shocks and chassis.

just want to start with the engine at the foundation. I’m big on spending money on the machine work and having the overall system thought through rather than bolt on parts that won’t live or coexist with chosen piston ring head combo etc.
since I’m new to the slant I want to build strong from bottom up.
I came up on ripping these out and putting in big blocks.
But now I’m intrigued by what has happened mechanically with the advent of CNC and engineering developments for this engine in the last 30 years since I’ve been away.
Besides doing it with my son and having common ground is priceless.