I've built quite a few 305 s. Because the parts interchange with a 350, it's cheap. You can easily propel two tons of Detroit Steel for about 18 mpg.

But around here, more respect is given for 8 mpg engine which would rip the car in half if it actually connects, or ridiculous over the top engineering to make a 302 stroker.

Nope, you won't get any respect building a 305.