So I just picked up a 69 Nova and I have a lot of questions.  First, it's an automatic, I think the guy said it was a 350 Turbo transmission but what's confusing to me about that is it has 3 pedals, so I'm assuming that at one point it was a manual, am I correct in this assumption?  Second, it has a non-original engine pushing out a supposed 375 hp although my 80 Camaro feels like it picks up a lot faster so I'm wanting to know what I can do to push around 600 hp out of the 350 that it now has.  Also, with that much hp and torque I will need to upgrade my suspension, any ideas?  I'm trying to learn all that I can but there's a lot of information on the internet to sift through so any input would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

Jay  

You're talking about increasing the output 70% - that will most likely only be done with the help of a power adder. 600 horse naturally aspirated is possible but it is far from easy...

With a true 600 horsepower engine more than likely very few stock pieces will stay in one piece. That TH350 would have to go with that kind of output. The rear end will also need to be replaced for a built Chevy 12-bolt, Ford 9", or some other sort of beefy differential. This is just the tip of the iceberg...  

It'll definitely be a long process, thanks for the tips.  So far I've been looking at a 12 bolt rearend from someone like Detroit Speed although the transmission I had no clue about.  What should I be looking for in a transmission for that amount of horsepower?  Am I going to need to have the new tranny put in when the engine is finished or could I get that first?  I hope my questions don't seem too stupid and I really appreciate your advice.  

Ahh, I forgot to add that I want to pull out the engine it has now and I want to replace it with something beefier like a 396 or a 454 if I can stuff it in there, I'm starting to look it up all right now too.  

That was fast! A minute ago you wanted a 600 horse 350, now we're looking for big blocks.  

Is a power adder poisonous?  

Power adders surely don't make it any easier on an engine...