Engine Recommendations - Need help for 70 GM A Body PT platform

[Bigmanz]

Okay, so the bodywork on my 70 Chevelle Malibu is nearing completion. I've began to purchase the parts: big brake kit, suspension, interior, A/C and long laundry list of other parts. I'm having trouble though with regards to the decision of which engine and drive train combination to go with.

Initially, I was dead set on the 454 or possibly saving up for the massive GMPP ZZ572 ($$$). But then I thought about the weight added and the fact that this car is supposed to be one that has power and the best handling possible. So i'm not convinced that either of those will do the trick. I've also considered the LS and LSX motors but haven't found a site that has reasonable prices listed.

Any recommendations for engine/transmission combinations that work well in this car and/or sites for ordering them would be greatly appreciated. I've looked at enginefactory.com, atk motors and a few others but they all seem a bit pricey. I'd like to stay under $5k to $8k on motor and transmission if possible but if need be I could spend more. Any info on vendors that sell salvaged/used motors and transmissions would be great well.

Thanks and I look forward to your feeback.!