[tirod]

Point being, why? Billet isn't "better," it's simply taking a large hunk of aluminum and machining it to final dimension. That means every pass of the tool head has to be programmed, and that the final dimensions are actually what you want. It does not mean the material it's being machined in is better, or that the final result will be stronger.

What you get with billet - actually, fully CNC machined - is shorter lead times, as there is no casting process. You still have to know what dimensions are needed (not wanted,) and why. All a billet block gives you is quicker turnaround time from finished drawing to finished part. That part still needs development beyond the computer design time that created it.

Last of all, it's still a block. Build one and the motor could still turn out to be less than what was anticipated. Cams, heads, and induction are what make horsepower, the crank just conveys it, and the block just holds the crank. Not to mention that if you overheat it, the studs and bolts will likely pull the threads and all you have is a very expensive coffee table.

Anybody with a big enough mill and a programmer can machine a billet block - it's exactly what CNC machines do, make low quantities at high profits for niche markets. Otherwise, volume would justify casting for a less expensive end price. "Billet" has become synonymous with "bling" in the haute rod culture, very little of it actually performs to a higher standard. It just looks cool.