hell my car was $1700 and i was still under 4k getting it running. and in my experience, many car guys out there are really nice and receptive to guys trying to build cars on a budget. every engine I bought the guy selling threw in some sort of discount or extra parts for free or $20 extra without asking. I got a 4bbl intake with my 318 for free, my 360 was supposed to be a short block only for $250 but the guy threw in all the valvetrain and bolts for the engine as well as a transmission for no extra cost. I know mileage may vary, but overall a lot of people are willing to help just out of the kindness of their heart.