K&n

Are the k&n filters even worth running? I have been told they flow alot better then paper filters, but i have also been told they let alot more dirt thru then a paper filter as well. I have the stock air cleaner off of a 1970 plymouth roadrunner car with 383 big block 4 speed. It has 2 nozzles to let air or suck air in and other then that it is closed off, i like running this filter housing because the paper filters dont get as dirty as fast as with the aftermarket chrome filter housings that are just out in the open.
I was wondering if it would be worth throwing a k&n filter in the inclosed filter housing that came off the 383. This way it wouldnt get dirty quite as fast and i'm thinking if the k&n truely flows a whole lot better then the paper filters i might see some increase in throttle response? I am currently running the car quest house brand paper filter, i have always been to scared to run a k&n because i paid darn near 4 grand for my engine and i dont want to ruin it.