Must have never had a big block in an a body ?
I love 340's and 360's have rode in a couple nice 318's
But the torque of a big block in an a body is nothing but smiles and pulling hard especially on the street !
Flick of the pedal and you are smoldering the tires.
Can a small block do that , Yes!
Can a stock 318 no way !
Can a stock 383 absolutely in an a body easy 13 second car with traction.
Power to weight all day long !
Now add some bolt on and 12's are right there with traction.