True, you do have a point, but you have to start looking at the custom stuff. Custom headers, custom intake tract, different drive shaft, splicing wires.. Just a shot in the dark cause I dont know spuat about a vette

Also, if you build the 396, it will be pretty much bullet proof with all forged internals, etc.. Unless you are talking about building a LS6 the same way and not using a stock one. LSx motors arent too cheap to come by, then your going to change the heads and cam for more money.

A LSx would be neat in a C4 though