318 Magnum vs the world

I totally understand the notion of "use what you have" "budgetary constraints" etc. Hell even some four door cars are cool. And just because I have my opinion on something doesn't mean I think the next guy is wrong for going his own way.

HOWEVER.

If (IF!) the underlying assumption is, essentially sticking with what you have because of lack of funds (and we've all been there, I totally get it), then it follows that, once you are doing anything beyond the most basic and stock oriented builds, then that budget oriented argument falls apart.

Once you are machining a block for aftermarket pistons decking etc, the costs of a 273 vs a 318 vs a 360 start getting pretty negligible, or even favor the 360, especially with available pistons. At which point, if your goal is most torque and power possible, a bigger engine is generally going to run harder.

Yes of course a big block is the logical progression, but it's a much more involved swap. Going 318 to 360 essentially falls into place and all existing components are for the most part going to be compatible.

All that said, again I'm not saying anyone is wrong for building any engine. If you build your 318 into a screamer I'll still think it's really cool. I love unique different builds. Different is cool.