A 216 will last a longer under today's conditions, given that dusty dirt roads are scarce, greatly slowing down the rate of dirt being sucked into engine at the valve cover, powered by the downdraft tube.
Today's oil is much improved, as well as the consistency and quality of gasoline.

1952 5-window - return to "as built" condition | 1950 3100 with a 235 and a T-5 transmission