[benchtest]

First, I would address longevity...a broken car is no fun. The 7.5" won't last long at the strip..8.8" fixes that. Shifter: get a good one with stops, or you will bend shift forks. (Save up for a better trans too...the stock one is a bit weak.) A better clutch cable and quadrant are recommended. Next, you need to get the power to the ground before adding any power. South-side bars or similar are needed (lowers). The instant center is too far forward with stock lower bars. Frame connectors are a good idea also. Don't spend a fortune on this stuff, just buy good quality. i.e Carbon fiber is wasted on a 3500 lb car. Safety stuff like a roll bar or cage and a scattershield are recommended or required if your track says so. If the engine is strong (good compression and low leak down), put in a good cam and a better intake (call the cam company for a recommendation). Headers and true duals should also go on. The heads are good, but pocket work & big valves help a lot. Throw on some sticky tires and you're set.