That's very true but that is offset by the small blocks valves that open on the bore center and the superior valve angle, not to mention a port window that is very close to the size of the big block (proportionally larger relative to the displacement)

The coolest things about the big block (to me) are the ease of removing the intake manifold and the fact that you could change out the cam and lifters without having to pull the intake/bathtub.

And the fact that nearly every aftermarket component you can buy for them is made of aluminum, so weight reduction can get the front-end weight down. A 'B' motor can get down very close to the weight of a stock small-block pretty easily.

(around 550)

I believe an Iron small block head actually weighs a pound to 2 MORE than a BB

I think a 400 or 423" (3.5" stroke with 2.200 BBC rod journals) with a set of ported TF 240's would make a really sweet 7500+ RPM combo, perfect for a 5 speed