How do I make my 1969 firebird faster and handle better?

I have a 1969 firebird with a 455 cubic inch motor and it is a 4 speed. I would like to make it faster and handle better. I want to fix it before school starts. The road to my school has A LOT of curves and its kinda hard to go around them with a old car. Anything that would help please suggest. Also, what exhaust would be best? I would like to put cherry bomb glass pack exhaust, but if there is anything better let me know. Thanks!