is there really no replacement for displacement?...

Now hold on there, I'm over at slantsix.org and I must point out that if you want to see a big difference with a slant for a modest price, look no farther then a timing recurve and head work. A timing recurve makes a world of change, especially when it's coupled with a high voltage coil and electronic ignition. Even on stock engines.

Headwork, being the second biggest bang for your buck upgrade, is essential. The head on the /6 was originally intended for the 170, when Chrysler increased the the stroke a whole inch in to acheive 225 C.I. they neglected to design a head to allow more flow. Also factory compression is very low (about 7.4:1) so it is important to CC the chambers and choose with method you want to use to raise compression.

After that, exhaust and carb upgrades becomes the next most responsive upgrade. The amount of head work would determine these choices.

I must say though, slants do have their limits. Naturally aspirated your usually running mid 13's to low 14's. On the other hand, I've seen some forced induction setups do mid to low 9's. Juice also another great way to make power, although it is risky if not done correctly.

As ya'll have said, it's not cheap to build a performance slant although; in my opinion, it's cool and different from the typical V8's. It's really fun to whoop up on small blocks with grannies slant! :snakeman:

Don't get me wrong, I do like small blocks. Sound is every thing to me in a hot rod and let's faces it, no matter what state of tune a slant is in, it never sounds quite the same as a small block. Glass packs and open headers make them sound like angry weed eaters, as where small blocks can pull that off and still sound decent.

It all boils down to taste and budget. I'll have a slant 'till the day I die!