If i were you I would try to find a 85+ 302 as they have the roller cam. The 82 has 157hp stock I believe compared to 210hp(5 speed) I imagine adding aftermarket parts to the 82 would get definate hp/tq gains but starting with an extra 53hp must have it's advantages. This is talking for carbed cars, go for 87+ or better yet 89-90+ for mass air rather, than speed density fuel injection of the 87+. I did not mention 86, they are fine engines too, but were improved in 87. I bet there are some mighty powerful pre 85 engines out there and since you do have one the price is right, but all things considered, you can pick up a roller engine pretty cheap and in my opinion would be a better starting point to go from. That is my 2 cents for ya. Making sure you get aftermarket parts that work well together makes a big difference too. Parts that make peak power at the same rpm levels, etc.
