Three comments:

1. I get that a Coyote doesn't look or sound like a traditional pushrod engine. But there's a reason (according to Dave Smith) that roughly 50% of Roadster builds are using them now. I've had two after two builds with small blocks. I'm a huge convert. Yes, powerful but very manageable. That's one of the things that makes them especially fun to drive. I always do a bit of a double take when people say the Coyote is "complicated" but then proceed with an aftermarket EFI setup that has nearly the exact same installation effort. Plus with the prices you're being quoted, the Coyote is a bargain. Off my soapbox. I know they're not for everyone.

2. You're paying more than you really need to IMO if you are looking for 350-425 HP. Blueprint has become a very popular option. Like this one: https://www.factoryfiveengines.com/b...l-injected-mk4.

3. Strongly recommend going with a TKO. The T-5 is a little light for what your describing. You won't break a TKO. Yeah, lots of chatter about how they shift. Maybe not quite as nice/easy as a T-5. But once broken in, the TKO shifts fine.