318 2bbl manifold swap with OE cam - worth it?

Thanks for the input gang. As of right now, a cam is not an option. That was my original point to see if a manifold and carb would be worthwhile doing without changing the cam. Obviously a new cam would be the answer, as well as a gear set and headers etc. Funny how a carb and manifold turns into an entirely new drivetrain.

I've heard two reasonable assessments from Lxguy and 340 Dart who both clearly said this type of thing made a noticeable difference. 340 Dart actually had the numbers to back it up, looks like the car picked up over a second with just these type of changes. (read no cam change)

A bunch of you have said that gears will make a difference and that's pretty obvious. As stated before, I have the diff that will go in the car eventually I just need to get the rest of the stuff to finish the whole rear. This is a project in itself, prolly won't happen before the summer is over.

I will however, soon be ditching the power steering (though the A/C will stay for now until the 'real' engine goes in). I will be installing a floor shifter too and a tach, all stuff I have. These were things I was planning to do anyway though I doubt these things in themselves will help ET much. I know I picked up 2 tenths shifting manually on my second run and that was letting off trying not to break out (broke out anyway). Losing one drive belt will definitely free up some HP too, but not a lot. A better (open) air cleaner might help a little too. Every little bit counts.

I'm really just looking for a higher fun quotient and to do some old school tinkering. I don't think I have unrealistic expectations for this stuff, it's just for fun and show when I pop the hood. I think the cost would be minimal (I say that now) and would give me a chance to drive and tune. It will be fun trying to squeeze as much as possible out of the car with basic parts, I need the experience. It would be like those slow bracket racers who go to the finals every meet against much quicker cars, they know their stuff and cut perfect lights. Not sure how often I will get to the track but I'm hoping for a slightly more satisfying experience when I do.

Plus, I'm a gear head, I can't leave things alone!