I'm refreshing the engine and drivetrain of a 1937 Dodge coupe that my Dad and I restored over 20 years ago. I bought the car from the original owner who was 92 at the time under the condition that I wouldn't turn her car into a hot rod. I went in all original and used NOS components where we could, but now 20 years on I've noticed that there are far more speed parts available for the 218 than there were back in the 90s. Dual exhaust manifolds, dual carb set-ups, and high compression heads. I'd still like to keep the engine "original-ish" but would like to know if any of you could tell me what might be period correct for the car. If I could go back to the late 30s and early 40s and pop the hood on the Mopar hot rod of the day, what would I see in the engine bay? And don't tell me a Ford V8! Ha!
I'm also thinking about milling the head to boost compression so I can take advantage of the advances in gasoline octane from the past 80 years.
Appreciate the advice!