“Max effort daily driver” 318 build vs “Budget” 400 swap

TTI has the best headers for this. Stock manifolds would do just fine if they’re the correct fitting ones. Fender well headers are just dang pricey.
I agree 100%. With only as mild of a big block as you really "need" for a street car, the HP manifolds would work fine. Too many people over think things. These cars are very light and even a blueprinted HP 383 would make an A body very quick on the street.