Factory old iron just can't compete ... ??

4 digit HP is possible on old iron with turbos. A turbo that adds more pressure as the rpm goes up is easier on parts than a NA engine or a N02 hit.

As always, the ability to go fast is dictated by the thickness of your wallet.

The combo of a big engine in a light car is the first basic approach that should be taken. If a big engine is out of the question or you just want to do a small block (strokes or not) then the next expense is stable high RPM.
true points, it just seems the new gen engines will take 1100-1400 without filling the blocks, and such for strength.