I'm trying to put together my plans for a '50 Pontiac I'm putting together, and am planning on going with a big-block to power her. This a street car only, but with plenty of kick of course. I've been a Chevy guy so far so sort of defaulted to planning on a Chevy drivetrain. I would consider Pontiac if it turns out to be viable, but that's where you guys come in. So, questions are...

If it's a Chevy, what big-block cores are ideal to look for? I know certain years have better clearancing, stonger blocks, etc.? What should I look for?

I figure if I'm doing it I might as well go big.. 454. What are the pro's and con's (other than the obvious weight issues...) between this and a 396 or 427?

What about Pontiac motors? Is there any reason why I shouldn't just keep it all Pontiac, go with a 400 or 455? I understand that they are really all the same block, what does this matter if it's really crank and combustion size that create more bigblock effect (massive torgue #'s).

Appreciate your thoughts.

jb