Regular old school flat tappet solid lifters are reliable other than two things: the periodic adjustment; ZDP removed from the
oil.
The ZDP additive in
oil was causing O2 Sensor failures. Almost all, if not all, modern engines are either overhead cams or roller lifters, so ZDP was greatly reduced. The ZDP additive in
oil was there to improve wear resistance. Modern oil needs an additive to increase ZDP if a flat tappet lifter is used. This goes for hydraulic or solid lifters.
So if you are not a gear head, and want a reliable engine, as you stated in your opening post, I would recommend a hydraulic roller lifter.
PS
Not all FE blocks were drilled for hydraulic lifters. Some relied on oil splashing to keep oil between the cam lobes and lifters. These blocks will only support solid lifters.