This is where I can stand on my "soap box" Big block, small block, best brand or brand X. If you want to build a low mantainence, fast engine, the costs are going to be fairly close. Price a Bryant or Callies crank, Crower or Oliver rods, Mopar, Keith Black, or other blocks, CFE or equivelent head porters heads , Milodon or equivelent oil pans. I think I'm up to $15K, and I haven't selected a builder yet.