engine and trans- help me decide

[Ishmael]

If you've read my tpi thread recently then you've seen this new question but if not here's a refresher with an appropriate title:
I need a fuel injected engine and overdrive trans for my 68 firebird convertible. The engine has to make between 450 to 500 hp if I'm going to be able to go unit swinging with father-in-law and brother-in-law who both have c5s. I'm only worried about straight lines - not the curves. I'm also trying for a budget of $10 000. The car currently has a sbc in it. It'll get frame connectors and the rear should be able to handle it. I'm not big into tuning or computers so keep it simple please and I don't want to cut my trans tunnel as the interior is already going in. Here is what I see are the options, please chime in on what you think I should go with and how I should go about it:
1. stroked pontiac with pro products f.i. and 200r4
2. lt1 and
3. sbc and holley stealth ram or ? and
4. ls2 and 4l60e
5. ? you tell me ?
The more I research this stuff the more I have no idea which way I want to go.

[Z06vet]

You can make that HP easy with any LSx motor setup, even the 5.3. LS1, LS2 or 6.0 truck motor would be my choice. Go with an LSx motor, its a no brainer with your budget. You wont regret it. Scott

[Z06vet]

Forgot to ask if you'd be doing the swap yourself or paying a shop. Paying for the complete swap could get expensive. Check this combo out:
https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=71912

[Ishmael]

Trust me, I've been staring at that thread. I would be doing the install myself. What i worry about with the LS isn't the price of the engine - its the price of everything you need to do the swap. I was talking to Hotrod Lane who said I'd be spending at least $5000 for everything for the install. That price includes a reflashed puter and harness. I don't enjoy wiring schematics so I won't be cobbling up my own. At that price I would be at 400 hp for my target price plus a bunch of shipping.
What do you think of a 496 ci injected pontiac? I love the idea of gobs of torque and a pontiac under the hood. I know I shouldn't go that route but I need somebody to tell me why. I can't go much further until I figure this one out.
Life is good when the engine in your project car is your biggest problem.