Firstly a 383 is not an outdated engine. (10K is a pretty high price)
Really not much different from a 440 except a bit shorter.
A 400 block is also a good option since it has the same deck height (heads in the same position).
I've seen more 383's for sale in the past few years than 400's or 440's, some complete running engines fairly inexpensive.
In your position I would look for a good running "B" engine 383 or 400.
To put a Gen 3 Hemi in it you need to do many things:
1. Create a fuel system
2. Mount the engine and trans
3. Custom exhuast
4. Modify the driveshaft
5. Get working gauges probably not the originals
6. Likely bastardize the electrical system
All these items are going to add up and any one of them can go wrong.
Now you have a real oddball that no-one will want to touch if you have any problems with it.
But it's your car so your call.
If you aren't able to do the work yourself I wouldn't recommend it.
My thoughts.
Really not much different from a 440 except a bit shorter.
A 400 block is also a good option since it has the same deck height (heads in the same position).
I've seen more 383's for sale in the past few years than 400's or 440's, some complete running engines fairly inexpensive.
In your position I would look for a good running "B" engine 383 or 400.
To put a Gen 3 Hemi in it you need to do many things:
1. Create a fuel system
2. Mount the engine and trans
3. Custom exhuast
4. Modify the driveshaft
5. Get working gauges probably not the originals
6. Likely bastardize the electrical system
All these items are going to add up and any one of them can go wrong.
Now you have a real oddball that no-one will want to touch if you have any problems with it.
But it's your car so your call.
If you aren't able to do the work yourself I wouldn't recommend it.
My thoughts.
