Why are 318's low HP and torque?

I'll look into it, but I think I've been back and fourth enough. I am going to make a little 318 run nice and smooth in my car while I look around for a 340/360 engine. Ill have a 727 transmission and an 8 3/4 rear end behind it whenever it's ready. For the mean time, I'm just going stock so that I can save for a real HP maker in the future. Thanks guys!