My 1964 Corvette (non-original but correct year/type replacement engine done in 1970) is showing wear and I’m looking at modernizing it with an updated engine (so I don’t have to worry about high-octane fuels plus octane boosters and lead replacement) of similar power, adding disc brakes and power steering. Will this diminish the value? Any suggestions?
Since you do not have a "numbers matching" engine, I’d encourage you to go for the upgrades. Save all the existing parts, and create the car that is the most useful and fun to drive. The question of diminished value is only possible to answer when it comes time to sell it way down the road – whether the buyer in question would prefer a tired (but mostly stock) or a modified (but fresh and easy to drive) 'Vette is tough to answer. If you’re looking for a ZZ4 replacement engine, check some online sources such as www.cratenginedepot.com , but I’d also encourage you to price the engine through your Chevy dealer, because you just never know...