I chose cost, but not in the sense that I think parts prices are out of line. It's just too much money for my family's budget to absorb. If I had multiple picks, I might have added "availability of parts" and "reliability" too. Any engine I might build is going to get driven, lots, and I can't even imagine trying to source replacement parts for a "cammer" when you are broken down on the side of the road. I do have a soft spot for the FE as I worked on them from the mid-60's to the late 80's (when I actually turned wrenches for a living) but any FE (especially a SOHC) has climbed out of our price range. There has been an FE planned for my '58 F-100 for years but never the wherewithal, or necessity, to start building it. I had to leave my "donor" 390/C6 behind when I moved to GA and, now that it's time, I think the new plan is going to revolve around a 351W. The initial cost will be lower, fuel mileage should be better, and availability of replacement parts at any local parts store is easier. Not what I'd really like to have, but it will certainly fit my budget better. I keep hoping I'll trip over that "undiscovered" FE that I can afford to build but, even if I do, it's still an extra $1k to bolt up an AOD transmission.
Lou