Using a 270 GMC to replace a 216 was cutting edge technolgy in 1951. I know several people that are still in love with the Jimmy's for vintage racing applications, however, in dollars spent and the overall outcome, a late model 292 will win every time.
I might be a little bias because I live in the Western US, I am use to traveling on roads connecting areas that are in many cases 100 mile plus apart. Back in the good ole days there usually was a service station/garage at least every thirty or do miles apart, that is not the case anymore.. Sign on #95 Nevada/Idaho.. Next Service 98 miles.. Wm.
