I agree with you as far as popularity quote.
Because it is popular, does not make it the
"world class motor", you want it to be. Chrysler
always gave the enthusiasts choices, different
strokes for different folks; no pun intended.
Their engines ALL run! Because you have a
high-dollar 440 that is run on both street and
strip, DOES NOT make me a lesser racer (read
person) cause I have a "warmed-over" 383 with
iron heads that runs 12.50's all day. If the guys
are so sure that a single type of motor is so
superior, then enroll in class type racing! Prove
your motors worth. Most of us rather "run against
the clock" and help others to improve their combos to run better. There is no room for
the "ultimate motor", unless you are bucking
for sponsorship to build them. It is called being
a student and scholar in the world of automotive
technology.