As far as costs go, my complete 331 was around $800. Granted a rebuild will be more than a SBC, but the wow factor is worth it.
This is the perfect hotrod IMO. Model A with a 1954 Chrysler 331 (Bass's car)
No other engine even comes close to the early Chrysler hemi for the cool factor
THE Bass Hemi Model A Coupe - THE H.A.M.B.
Centerline has a nice hotrod too
Here is his early hemi website..
http://www.hotrodsandhemis.com/
.