As long as the engine doesn't encounter detonation/pre-ignition, then most head gaskets will survive. But fact is that most performance (race) motors do encounter that environment... leading to the cylinder combustion armor cracking and burning through. But, the internal wire ring, wrapped around by a SS armor, is superior against such burn-through.... FP 1009.

The steel shim gaskets are very good, but, they don't offer surface conformability ... requiring very smooth surface finishes, often having fluid seepage.