I think any A-body + New Hemi is going to be a dynamite combo. I'm driving a 3600# Valiant with a low-squeeze 340 that makes an honest, untuned 300hp and 340lb-ft at the crank. With a 4-speed and 3.23 gears, it's a treat to drive - can spin the tires with ease, and has plenty of grunt. It's not the fastest car on the street at all, but it should crack in to the 13's. Add 100hp/lbft from the new Hemi and you're looking at 12's with virtually no down sides - except for initial cost, and complexity of fabbing up an injection system if you go that route.

IMHO, grunt makes the world go round. The HP will follow the torque if the breathing is there.

Clair