Chris, 302's up to '75 or so are better, so you have a decent motor to stroke. After 75 they had smogger heads (thermactor stuff) and went to lower compression. If you are concerned about original numbers matching, then find a 351W and rebuild it the way you want, and keep the 302 until the 351W is built. Or build the 302 into a stroker (like the link I sent you last night) and buy my dual 4 intake, and make one screaming 302 that will be 200 pounds lighter then a 351W, easier to work on, ie, smaller, and maybe even fuel injection or a Shelby paxton unit.
I dont think you should be upset on the 302, but being screwed like you say would pi$$ me off too. You can do lots with a 302 now, so think before you find a 351W. But thats just me.
Like my friends say, if your going to change motors, get a big block, dont waste your time on a small block,lol.
Rick