I just recently bought a 1980 Chevy Camaro Z28 for $800.  The body is in great shape, no rust, just needs a paint job.  However, I want a little more power under the hood.  It has a 350 in right now.  I want some opinions on a drive train set up.  I am looking for around 400 hp, maybe more.  I want to put a crate motor in but dont know what I should go with.  I would also like some ideas on a solid tranny to put in it to back up the 400 or so ponies.  I am currently in Iraq and deciding on what set up to get with a 6-8 grand budget for both the engine and tranny when I get back.  Any ideas?  

I just bought a 1980 Camaro over the summer that I am building as well. Where you thinking big or small block? The small block is capable of 400HP with a good set of heads, cam (prefferably a roller), comp ratio to work with the cam, intake and properly tuned exhaust. If you go with a crate motor, the 383 seems to be the popular choice. Just a word of caution, be leary of advertised HP ratings, the actual HP is generally much lower. For me big block is the only way to fly, so I assembled a 454 with some potent attitude, coupled up to a re-worked TH400. For your 350-400HP, a TH350 will hold up if it's built well. You will need frame connectors and different gear ratio. Stay safe over there and good luck.  JW.  

Ok. Building a 400 HP small block for your car is no problem. Don't mess with a big block, it'll cost a ton more, and you won't be able to drive the car as much because of the gas guzzling tendencies of a big block.

Your Z/28's motor had 190 HP stock. They were choked down with weak cams, emissions equipment, restrictive exhaust, etc.

If you don't want to build the engine you've got, I'd suggest the 290 HP base GM Performance Parts crate motor, or a ZZ4. On the 290 HP motor, a cam swap for a good hydraulic roller cam and the right intake/carb combo, you'll be close to 400 HP, on the ZZ4 you'll have about 350 out of the box, and a cam change will give you even more.

With good internals, a TH350 will handle either motor.  

He didn't say he wanted to mess with a big block, I just threw it out there in case he wanted to make some real power.  

Good info guys, hope this help you out afturtle 25.