First thing, are you spinning off the line? If so drag radials will make you faster for sure and you'll probably take him. But, if you're hooking up fine then get the converter. I put a 3200 on my car which isnt a whole lot more than the stock converter and it makes a world of difference. My C4 is living on barrowed time though, but for now if i blow it out i can get a used one for 150 bucks so it's not a huge deal. Have you done the "old school" stuff like drop the jack and spare, loosen if not remove the front sway bar? If you at least loosen it your car will come up a bit easier off the launch and will give you a little better 60ft time. All and all we're all up against a tough enemy with the LT1's and LS1's considering they boast a solid 48 cubes from the start.