You're right that horsepower is what moves the car.
Horsepower = Torque x RPM / 5,252
But RPM can't be king. Neither can torque.
It takes both.
Taking one variable in an equation and calling it "the king" doesn't work, that isn't science.
My issue with "rpm is king of horsepower" is that it's just the reverse argument of "torque is king of horsepower"
They're both neglecting the importance of the remaining part of the equation.
Let's really bench-race here.
If you built 21 different small block mopar engines, all with the same compression, cylinder head, cam, intake, etc.
All with an equal bore, let's say 4.04"
But each one had a different stroke length.
1st) with 4.00" stroke
2nd) with 3.900" stroke
3rd) with 3.800" stroke
4th with 3.700" stroke
..etc
...etc
21st) with 2.00" stroke
The biggest engine is a going to displace 410ci, the smallest engine is a 205ci
Do you think *any* of the smaller engines could ever realistically create more horsepower than the larger 410ci with the 4.00" crankshaft?