If you run a stroker kit 393 / 408, etc... that again will help the torque, but will again DESTROY a t5 (even the "world class" t5) I mean youre talking about a solid 450+ motor.... poor little t5.
One of the best prices Ive seen on a kit is from flatlanderracing.com its a SCAT kit forged, for like 1600... about 18-1900 out the door with rings and bearings, etc.
A toploader is strong, we all know that... but if you go that route (and I am for cost savings cuz mine came with the TL) then you have to plan accordingly...
- you either run like a 3.0 ring gear ratio and get to drive the car on the highway
- or you run a 3.91 / 4.x + and take only surface streets and back roads everywhere you go so that you dont have to turn the motor 3500 all the way there...
- or you call up gear vendors and put in and overdrive (read: work)
- or you bite the bullet and save up about 1500 for a Tremec.
(yeah I know the trans is only about 11-1200 but it doesnt run too good with no clutch, or cable, or bellhousing, etc...)
D&D out of California is where I got the one for my 90.
So either way is good, as long as you plan ahead, and understand the drawbacks to each...
Hope this helps,
Dave-
EDIT..... Hey wait doesn't youre sig say you have an auto? Have you ever thought about a 4spd auto? I dont know if it's been done, but Im sure somebody must have.... veeerrryyyy strong, never miss a shift, still has overdrive, one pedal easy to drive, etc... something to think about.