Anybody know Ford's, here?

I have worked on many types of American v8 engines. To me the big block mopar is the best. It just makes sense.
That being said it isn’t perfect. I don’t like the exhaust fasteners going into the water jacket, changing the big old starter is generally easier on a gm engine. The mopar water pump and fuel pump are easy to get to.... usually. Changing the intake on a Ford FE is a nightmare by comparison. Chevys distributor goes thru the intake...not a fan of that. I like the mopar external oil pump too. I like the flat pan gasket and skirted block, and pressurized shaft rockers.
What is the sheet metal piece between motor and trans on a ford for? Why was it Needed?
The 383 2bbl used the same head as a 440 six pack, that’s pretty cool. Ever looked up gm head numbers? Sheesh

I could go on and on but I’m tired, sorry for rambling, I know the post isn’t very coherent.

I cannot agree more. Distributor in the front, dry intake, like the 351C, 351M and 400 Ford, distributor comes out stand alone, external oil pump, and on and on....what's not to love?