What do you think about this statement.........

I read awhile back, probably in Mopar Action that the reason for the switch to the pedestal type rocker arms was a concession to the AMC engineers that came over when Chrysler bought AMC.

Stock for stock, you can’t blame the newer engines for having some improvements over the old design. The oil pan and valve cover sealing is absolutely superior on a Magnum.
As Mentioned, EFI, low tension rings and computer controls resulted in a longer lasting, more powerful and reliable engine. The LA series never had those so when comparing stock for stock, the Magnum wins.
You could update an LA to Magnum levels of reliability just like you could with a slant six if you wanted. They just weren’t built that way when new. I think the improvements the Magnum had compare to what Chevy and Ford did to their engines. A Vortech 350 runs longer and cleaner than a 1975 350 too. Improvements in head flow, oil sealing and EFI over there too.