Howdy Back S-Bender:
I'd suggest that you stick with the '65 Autolite 1100 carb for 200. Your '61 Holley model 1904 on a 170 engine is rated at 150 cfm, whereas the '65 Autolite 1100 is rated at 185 cfm. If you still want a manual choke you can buy a universal choke kit and install it. Know that the Holley 1904 glass bowled carbs are very sought after, so don't lose it.
While the '61 170 distributor will not go into the '65 200 block the points, condensor, cap and rotor may work on the '65 distributor. I've never done it, but it is worth a try. Know that both distributors are a vacuum advance only system, known as "Load-O-Matic". They require a vacuum valve in the carb, called a Spark Control Valve, to send the correct modified vacuum signal to the distributor for advance. There are "Stickies" at the top of this forum about the workings of both the SCV and the Load-O-Matic distributor.
The '65 block offers serveral advantages over the '61 170. Some of the highlights are; It will have hydraulic valve lifters, 7 mains crank, larger bore and stroke, higher compression (8.7 vs 9.2), larger intake and exhaust valves, a better exhaust manifold. All of which adds up to a smoother, more powerful engine.
You are wise to follow a KISS policy. Things to watch out for;
*Leaks- of any kind. Especially gas and vacuum leaks.
*Start with new filters, oil and gas. Use a light weight, high detergent oil and be sure to prime the oil system before start-up. You might want to run a commercial flush product through the first start-up. Be sure to use new gas, and consider a gas line system cleaner there too.
*Slipped timing ring on the damper. Check with the TDC on the number 1 cylinder to verify that the timing mark is accurate.
*In addition to the electrical tune up, you'd be wise to do a thorough cleaning and inspection of the carb. If you don't see gas squriting into the carb throat when you work the accelerator linkage, it is time for a rebuild kit and internal cleaning.
*Your '61 exhaust head pipe will not fit the '65 manifold. The difference is that the '61 uses a flat gasket and has a 1.75" outlet. The '65 will have a donut gasket connections and a 2" outlet.
FOR SAFETY- Once you have the engine running, don't overlook the safety issues of brakes, tires, steering and suspension. Too often I see folks so pleased to get the engine running, they immediately hit the highway, to "clean her out". Be safe! Check first!
IF you don't have a Shop Manual for your '65 engine, that should be your first major purchase. They are about $50.
Keep us posted on your progress.
Adios, David