Some posters have a very good understanding of how and why a powerful old school V8 can actually be reasonably efficient. I don't have a lot of time today but tomorrow I would like to re-visit and add a few more points of discussion.
For now though ignition timing is worth spending some time discussing. Getting the timing curve perfect for all driving conditions is not possiblewith just a mechanical advance system. I strongly urge anyone willing to look at a programmable ignition such as:
MSD 6530 MSD Digital Programmable 6AL-2
For those that want more mileage out of their hot small blocks please keep reading and add to the discussion. J.Rob
