Well, I kinda agree with you, 1Gary-----we all do put too much emphasis on HP. Since we all know the old saying "hp costs money, how fast do you want to go?" I think at my age and "needs" for my next build, Ill want something respectable b ut not a real ground pounder. I have been checking out the 4.3 marine engines-----change exhaust manifolds, add some "go fast" chrome and they just might be something to consider.
Originally I was looking at building up a 64-5 chevy II next, but now Im considering a 67 chevy shortbed instead. I think the duece would be lighter and have more "jump" from a 6 than the truck would---but with either, Im looking forward to the "wow" factor of opening the hood on the v6.