Are we talking about V-8's that push a minimum of 300 lbs/ft of torque or are we talking about inline fours that have trouble pushing 150 lbs/ft of torque at the crank? A highly tuned, low range torque, rear wheel drive V-8 is one thing. And a inline four that is looking to get a hole shot is another.
I realize you are trying to save this guy from a fate worse than death but I can't see how purchasing a piece like this will not benefit him not only now but also in his long range goals. If he is indeed looking to get power down consistantly this will aid him well, but if that is really the issue he should check out alternative suspension and clutch assemblies for more effective power down strategies. Everyone know (or should know) that the real power is on the inside of the engine not in bolt ons. Hell if we all had an extra 600 hundred dollars laying around and it wasn't illegal we would all be throwing NOS on our cars any ways, but unfortunately it is only allowed on the track.
I would like to pose the question to Oblivian: What is your intention?