Hi Kid---Here's my 2 cents worth. If I was after the same things you want, and money was not a major obstacle. I would definately opt for a big block engine. Not an elephant, but definately a rat---something akin to a 454 cubic inch, fed by a single 4 barrel carb, (or the newer fuel injection systems). For the tranny I would go for a minimum 4 speed, and if you can get one with overdrive for added gas mileage, well thats fine, but if this is primarily a city driven car, an overdrive is not really needed. The rearend thats in the car is probably O.K., but a 3.55:1 ratio single speed rearend is a nice gearset for what you are after. ---Check with your cars manufacturer or the aftermarket, and see if you can buy a "rallye-pack" for your suspension----stiffer springs, meatier sway bar, stiffer shocks. (and the beauty is its all bolt on, if its a rallye-pack made for your specific model of car). Any competent muffler shop can help you with the sound you are after---before you buy, ask for the name of somebody driving a car with the similar muffler package and engine and listen to it first if you can.