Looks like you are coming along very nicely and I think it's great that you are doing this car to your specifications. Since the original drive train is gone, you don't have the fender tag and I assume you don't have the build sheet either, none of the "purists" should beat up on you.
I built a '68 Barracuda to my specifications and desires and I just had my NM RR restored to Almost OE specifications and building the Barracuda was A LOT more fun.
Have fun with the build and keep the pictures of your progress coming.
What color on the exterior and interior?