old time, chevy engine combo with newer part choices

[Grumpy]

while this has always been a combo that produced good power, simply adding a 3.5" 0r a 3.75" stroke crank, allows even greater power
if the correct parts are used, , yes you can in theory make more power per hp, but not more total peak torque or hp

or put differently, sure a shorter stroke and larger bore makes impressively higher power numbers, at much higher rpms,
but added displacement can make even more total power to the engines power curve and results in a faster car if the correct gearing and compression is matched to the correct head flow, cam lift and duration and LSA and compression, this generally requires a 12.5:1 or higher compression if you use gas or E85

 

[Grumpy]

the key to getting the best value has always been in doing the required research before opening your wallet,
and in your taking the time to research and in selecting parts matched to perform at the intended potential use of that engines rpm and power level,its useless to build an engine that might produce 550 hp at 6700 rpm, and stick it in a car/truck with an auto trans that shifts at 4500 rpm, or that has an exhaust system that strangles performance above about 5000 rpm, which is all too common, or to install a cam that would require a 3500 stall speed converter , a 3.73:1 rear gear and 10,5:1 compression, in something like a 4000 lb impala with a stock transmission, a 2.87 rear gear and 8:1 compression, (which I've seen done)
and in that process thinking through the intended use of the power band,and in what I see all to often, in not failing to match the suspension drive train, gearing, brakes, cooling and lube systems to that intended performance level.