I think the upside-down coil was an effort to prevent condensation from collecting in the high-voltage tower of the coil, back when plug wire boots left a lot to be desired in the waterproofing department. Of course, the distributor cap had six plug wire terminals, plus a coil terminal to collect moisture, all facing up, so the theory was flawed, IMHO!
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!