Well history does say that a straight 6 is one of if not the best engine layouts or configurations, even better than a V of any number of cylinders. Dodge /6, Plymouth /6, Ford 300-6, Mercedes, BMW, and just about every manufacture has or has had a notable inline/straight 6 that have proven reliable. Think some of the long life and reliability comes from the great balance characteristics of the inline six? But "there is no replacement for displacement". Someone will save the almighty V8.