My '63 Ford Falcon takes a while to downshift when the engine's cold, it's an...

[b down]

...automatic trans. (more)? Also it has a hard time with hills and seems to lack power.
It's a V-6 straight six 170.
I'm assuming in 1963 this car flew up the hills so I'm wondering what I can do to bring the horsepower up. Any ideas?
I haven't changed the fuel pump in 5 years, also there's an exhaust leak in the manifold that I need to take care of. thanks for any help!!

 

[don r]

The Ford 170 was one of the weakest engines ford built. That car could barely do 70 mph on flat ground back in 1963. Do not challenge any Pintos with that car. You'll get embarassed. For more power Get a Ford 200 inch six with a 2bbl, or a ford 260 V8.

There is potential in any engine. The 170 was built for economy and that's it. You could pour money into it and get more power- fuel injection will give improvement, but it'll drink gas like a wino.