Assuming that Roger's 20% rule is acceptable (it probably is close), go to this site
Ryan's Small Block Chevy Stroker Engine Combo Page
and scope out the different build parameters....you can search for 500 hp to see what
it takes. IF YOU CHANGE ANY ITEM, all bets are off. You can dork up a combination with
a simple cam change......500hp isnt easy, especially with a single 4bbl. The $2000 budget
is probably acheivable if you take the $2000 to Vegas, bet it, and win 10X at the crap table.
Have fun in Vegas.