[james schaechter]

Chris, I really don't think that being an rpm motor is a real requirement with all the gear ratios and the good clutch stuff that exists. However, there are some real fun sounding stuff out there that would be hard to keep in one piece. Some of the big heavy stuff like Daren mentioned and the big block old or Pontiac stuff. Cool, but heavy.

Stick shifts are fun. When it comes to rpm, I would say that the engines can be harder on valve train since they are free revved on the line. That isn't even a major problem if you have good stuff that is kept fresh. You aren't gonna be happy if you short cut the valve train or drive train on a stick car. Unless you like getting towed back to the pits. LOL.