I think Scott went 9.10 last drag week, and it's actually an 8-second car if they can hook it with the transbrake, but it sounds like you are describing a less complicated scenario. The 502 incher that Scott Miller runs is a pretty serious piece. It did two Drag Weeks without a freshen up, but still might be a little far out for a "driver". I do also have several " 9 second" combos in service that you could drive to the grocery store. One example I use often is in a 3400 lb. T-Bolt clone.... Cal Tracs, 275 drag radials, C4, 496 cubes...9.60's @ 135, with no power adder. A much less complicated build, with lower budget, but durable pieces....so yes, 9-second street FEs are no problem these days, with the right stuff.