quote:Desire reliability, quietness (relatively), and improved performance.
Let's get back to the original premise as noted above. I suggest not getting carried away just yet so I'd keep it the improvements relatively simple and not too expensive until you've had time to really decide what it is you want your Pantera to be. Otherwise, you'll be doing it over and over.
So what would that be?
Get a used Performer/F351 manifold and a Holley 650. Cost $425.
Get a used Big Bore or similar headers and keep the stock mufflers. Cost $100.
Buy a new medium spec cam. This, more than anything, will dramatically improve the engine. The cam will also make the engine sound much better without making it louder. Cost $250.
Total parts cost $775 and about 100 more horsepower.
Doing much more to an engine on a piecemeal basis until you decide what you really want doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, especially since there are so many good options. And then it would be a good idea to do a rebuild.
Take the extra money and start on some of the other maintenance things that a 30 year old car needs. Things like bushings and bearings, Porterfield brake pads(the best $250 upgrade you'll ever make to your brake system), the relay upgrade for fans and lights, etc.
Just my 2 cents worth.