Very embarrassing: Dad owned a new 1956 Studebaker Hawk with the 259" V8, I timed it to 0-60 from tollbooths many times (I was 12). So, he knew what's up, at least at the time

Years later, he looked at a 1963 Dart convertible, and asked the salesman "Which engine is that?". The lying POS, understanding what Dad wanted to hear, replied with great enthusiasm "It's the BIG engine!".
Dad bought the car.
Yes, it was a 170" slant 6.