New and in need of TE Cortina info!

[George]

Hello all, I thought I'd give this site a shot after scavenging Google for the past few months for TE Cortina restoration info. Currently I've stripped her to a rolling chassis and I thought it'd be best to do my homework before going out and spending all my savings on random bits and pieces. I've got a few questions I'd like to ask that I haven't been able to find an answer to, so if any members could please answer them it'd be really appreciated.

Firstly, what is the best engine and what is the largest engine that can be legally fitted into a TE Cortina Sedan? And what would be the best gearbox to match? (Auto and Manual option please)

Secondly what mods will need to be done to handle the extra horses? I'm aware that the brakes will need to be upgraded (I was planning on upgrading them to 5 studs eitherway) but I'm not sure what the deal is with that? I heard Hoppers Stoppers sells a kit for the front but I'm not sure about the rear? Aside from the brakes however, what else will need to be upgraded?

Thirdly, what are the best / largest size rims and tyres for a Cortina in regards to handling and performance?

And last but not least will I lose any performance by running dual exhausts on my current 250 crossflow?

Thanks in advance for any help