Sounds like a fun car and good choice on the 4 speed
Barring exhaust coming right up through the shifter boot or elsewhere like someone else said, just enjoy it.
What type of clutch are you using? It looks like your making some good power and if your not used to it, it does take a bit to get used too.
I leave around 6800-7000 in my big block and the first passes of every year are "different"
Pull the belts tight and the one between your legs helps too!