My combo fits this bill. Engine was built for under 6k, throw in another grand for a basic 727 with a decent converter, and you basically have my setup. If aesthetics weren't important, you certainly could start cutting weight out of the car and I'm sure you could get it down near the 10's, if not into. My tubby street car packs 3800+ lbs down the track though.

Basics:
400 / 451; crank and block sourced off of Craigslist cheap. Block decked for "zero" & align honed
Scat Rods
Iconn pistons (flat with 5cc valve reliefs - 10.5:1 at zero deck)
440source stealth heads - no work / OTB, other than swapped locks retainers and springs.
Engle Solid flat tappet can - 252* / .573; square on 109 cl.
RPM intake with 4150 carb (currently a 1000cfm annular HP Holley)
MSD digital 6+ box, with Mallory elec. dizzy. (Digital box gives me a 2-step and high-end limiter)
Hooker Comp Headers
727 w/ T/A valve body
Lupo Dynamic converter - custom built 9-1/2"
4.10 gears on a spool in an 8-3/4"

I like the 451 over the 440 for a couple of reasons: lighter rotating assembly helps make power AND lives longer. Low deck block is lighter, fits better in the car. Maximum bore helps the same heads breath just a little better.

There's probably a dozen different ways to skin the OP's cat, but this one works for me.