Did you ever hear of the 383 HEMI? Uncle Tony's Garage discusses NHRA Pro Stock rule changes in the 1970s that made brands like Chevy more competitive (e.g., 331 cubic-inch Vega). In response MOPAR racers developed a 383 HEMI, that adapted 426 heads with a 383 block. The video is over 30 minutes long, but it contains a lot of interesting material. 383 Hemi - The Best Engine Chrysler Never Built, And Here's An Example Of One (youtube.com)
That's 'Bottle Rocket' parked in the background (4dr pale blue Fury with the white roof), weighs just 2900ish lbs, 318 motor, did a 7 and change sec 1/8 mile on an under $3k parts and car investment!