[aerohead]

Seems like the small V-8's potential for reserve power and lower service loading
would equate to greater longevity than the six in the motorhome.
Like with a motorcycle, there might be situations where 'accelerating' out of a developing situation might be safer than a panic stop.
The six is 'wide' in its 'slanted' side, while the tunnel-ram-esque intake manifold eats into space on the opposite side.
Guys I knew with the lightest Dodge van, with 318 and auto reported 22-mpg.
The six-passenger Chrysler Newport was good for 22-mpg with the 318.
Trade rags claimed that V-engines were cheaper to manufacture than in-lines.
And being 'shorter', hoodlines could be dropped for better aero.
Prompting transverse FWD configurations.