440cid LA

I agree, it's mostly things that if looked at seperately, dont make much sense to look at. But, at that level of "R&D", they might be something to look at. The engine in question was a Chevy, and there was nothing wrogn other than a very short custom piston. It was back in the late 80s, and aftermarket blocks were big $$ even for chevies, so this rotating assembly went into 3 different blocks in 4 years. It was a 427 CI in a 400 block, IIRC. (the theory was the 400s couldnt be bored over .030 safely) It did run like crazy tho, and was also used with 150 plate. It made him a LOT of money back then.
In terms of long/vs short, etc. The main thing is, what are you doing with it. An IMSA car will want to keep a higher piston speed, and can thanks to the transmissions and tracks. A street car will not need big rpms, but definately wants time for the pressure to build on the top of the piston for more immediate torque, and wants the mid stroke faster for better cylinder filling with big cams/bigger ports anf lower rpms. It's just an area I wouldnt ignore if you are going to the level you're ralking about, that's all. I'd still run the little "V-8" emblems and a ton of muffler..maybe paint it Mopar Lt Blue..lol