I know you have an open mind Michael--so consider this situation--
In choosing an older truck to redo as a hot rod - the older Chevs are easier and cheaper to do -
Parts cheaper - engines more responsive to rework - prices overall much lower and nationally -this is the typical case.
This is historic data.
I have done 460 Fords - 350 Chevs -on and on and the Chevs always ended up better toys -for me.
Having said that -- my current model airplane hauler is a Volvo wagon with a Mustang 5 litre HO engine and trans--
Why? - well it all fits together better -than a Chev in that car.
So what's the point?
Simply that your basis for evaluating an engine may mean little to someone else-- who has a different criteria.
IE-- My criteria for buying a model airplane engine may be different than yours - simply because --I use it differently.
Which of us is correct in assessing which is the best engine?
In some of my models the only engine which will fit - is the one I selected!
So far it is all working - very well --- for me