I really appreciate you guys taking the time to respond and not poop all over me. I frequent the internet more than most of you could ever believe (Comp Sci major.) I know some people can get vicious when it comes to "RTFM" or (Reading The ******* Manual.) I just put a 1000 dollar down payment on my 1976 280z. I really value everybodys' suggestions, especially that Hartley engine. I have been obsessing over this car non stop for the past several weeks. There are some engines I hadn't ever heard of until they were mentioned just now. This place is a mecca for me.
I am sure you people may think of me as a weekend warrior, as I am sure many lurkers of this forums are, but I am balls to the ******* wall about this car. Teaching myself to weld, learning the ins and outs of engines, the whole 9 yards.
As for what I intend to do with my car, I want to race it naturally, or I wouldn't have brought this topic up. Of course, I want to make it a daily driver first. I'll be creating a new thread dedicated to her as soon as she is in my possession. Regarding what type of performance I would like is excellent handling, seconded by launch/acceleration, and third-ed by top speed.