I have a 1986 Firebird running the old stock V6. I don't know if there's 178k or 278k on the motor, because my Aunt who sold it to me lost track.
Anyways, it's getting old and is going to need some work done soon.
I'm going to spend the extra penny and probably just swap it out for a new engine.
I'm looking at getting an engine with a combination of reliability (Something I already had with this one), and more HP/MPG.
My MPG was good, but my HP was horrible.
The Buick GNX looked good, but I'm sure there are more affordable and common swap possibilities.
Any ideas? What would ya'll recommend as a worthy, yet affordable upgrade?
I have 1-1.5k cash set aside, but I can probably get a little more to make sure I get something that's worth it. I wish I could get the V8, but there would be some more work/$, less MPG, and unnecessary speed for my daily driver.

Also, cheap labor is part of the cost. I know a mechanic personally who does work on my Firebird a heck of a lot cheaper/better than the local corporate grease monkeys.

 

The 3.4-3.8 V6's are a good motor and you can get them from the base 4th gen camaro's. I don't know all the details on the swap but others on here can tell you. Also do a search in the V6 section of the forum, many people have done the 3.4 swap and tell you whats best.
And if you get lucky you can do a V8 swap around your budget. Search your junk yard and local classifieds on the internet for a v6 or 350's. Searching will help you get a general list of what you will need. Hope this helps some. Good Luck