Idk about half the price, but Id sure hope it would be cheaper to build than a new car!
Clean 02 SS- ~$18K
454 LSX crate engine(ready to drop in and fire) ~$13K
9’’ Setup to handle the power-$2K
Trans(4L60E aint holdin that!) etc etc etc, you see where Im going
Total: $32,000+
2007 Gt500- $27,000
3.4 Whipple-$3500
Trans and rear hold it fine, couple hundred here and there for supporting mods and tune.
Total: $30,500
Not to mention the 500 will still drive like stock, and get decent mileage!