This has really got me thinking about giving the retro trip ago.
I too started flying in the early 70S and was in awe of the guys flying pattern on the pipe.
Hell why not...but guys get with the program... modern engines should be a down grade...well at least using trad' engines should give you a points hike. I flew recently with a buddy and a 70inch pattern aeroplane powered by the .61/pipe Hanno special.
Holy smokers it wasn't lacking power.
When I was a kid it was the old Webra Speed .61 Owned one and loved it... If I get on this jive it's gotta be that engine... in a Mike Birch Capricorn.... Not to shabby.