[Eddy K]

I really don't think that I can agree that the 289/302 Fords engines couldn't compete with the small block Chevy.
I had a 65 Mustang with a slightly warmed over 302 that more than held it's own with the Camaros and Corvettes around here.
It had a toploader, Shelby intake and a mild solid lift cam so I am sure it similiar to what you would find in a factory Corvette.
I don't remember ever losing to a Corvette on the dragstrip and I was also challenged to a race by a guy with a 70 442 Olds. I was able to beat him too.
This car was really very mild. Maybe the combination was just right or whatever but I never lost too many races to GM cars.