Today, dollar for dollar, is the 318 faster than the 340 ???

My gearing in my cars start at 2.76 and go to 4.30's. However, couple years ago we went through 9 states with 3.55's in a full time 4x4. I avoid interstates if I can with the oldies. Pay attention... you'll learn that I like highway gears.
I never built anything with a 2.76 gear that would perform up to my liking .