Before I even consider...

Just for a point of reference.
In the very same engine, I have run a 292, a 270 and currently a 276, always with a Dcr, of 8.9 to 8.6(aluminum heads). I think I have a fair understanding of torque and power..
Not knocking your knowledge at all, so hear me right. I think your example above is not a good one, and I think your understanding of torque and power comes from a willingness to open your wallet wider. For instance, you have more money in 1 aluminum head than I have in my entire 318 in the car I posted above. Per say, if somebody builds a 4 grand 360, they better have more torque and power than a 500 dollar 318... LOL. It'd be pretty embarrassing if it was the other way around. '
Goals are not the same for each and every car, person, or budget. The number 1 thing wrong with this site is if you don't spend spend spend on it all, a person is challenged. The exact reason why I spent 498.00 bucks on a 318 2bbl, no headers, 2.76 gears and stock converter was to show folks on a budget, or newbies (why I posted step by step videos) that they can play and have fun.
By the way, my little cheapo 318 exceeded EVERY FACTORY tested '73 340 Duster with auto and 3.21 gears. My E.T. was better, and my MPH was better. And I did it with WORSE DCR than a factory 318 2bbl as I used thicker head gaskets than factory.