nrand

I am beginning to look for a car that has been restored and rust free, which has as many improvements as possible.

I love the 66 Satellites with the Street Hemi and 4 speed so this would be a good starting point / alternately a 67 GTX with a 440. [I am not sure whether only the GTXs had the 440 this year] What I would end up with probably would be closer to pro-touring than stock, drivetrain wise. I am a middle aged guy so I would want a fully optioned car.

These are my perceived issues:

Apart from gas mileage, the front end weight, handling and braking have a less than ideal reputation on these, so my question is:

How much weight I can trim by going to aluminum parts wherever possible - even removing and storing the stock motor and other iron/steel parts for later?

I am guessing I don't need more horsepower than stock, understanding that the power to weight ratio benefits could get me into some pretty rare territory power wise anyway.

Ditto any other parts, radiators, fans, anything?

What is the best engine choice?

How much would such upgrades save on weight and improve handling/performance? With suspension and braking upgrades I am hoping for at least 200 - 300 pound shavings.

Am I thinking along correct lines here?

If money were no object, what would you do? [How's this for an all in one question!]