Sir, 4bbl manifold, dual exhaust and recurved distributer will help dramatically. These are bolt on modifications that can be done on a Saturday. Go for a free flow muffler...Flowmaster or Straightline Performance mufflers. Don't skimp on the mufflers. If you have time and money... install an aftermarket camshaft in addition to the above. If you have more time and money... pull the motor and have it bored, balanced and blueprinted. Go for 9.5 - 10:1 compression ratio. Yes, and gears. Lots of books available to guide your way. Call T/A Performance and request a catalog. Read Steven Dove's book on Buick motors. Hope this helps, Matt