I think the original parameters of the test were sufficiently narrow to produce responses in the desired direction, promoting 318 builds.
Thats a lousy way to do a scientific test..... but this is an opinion piece! It sure got lots of opinions.
Even though ive never built a small block, never had one except for the 273 i have now, i still find this thread very entertaining.
I seriously doubt i would build a 318 or a 340 for my 67 barracuda.