Hi Dale,
My comment referring to ww11 tech was to point out that the mechanical features ie bore/stroke ratios,rod length,cam and valve layout have changed little since 1950.As an example you can recall that many of the racing motorcycle engines of the late 50's(Benelli,gilera,mv.mondial)all featured short stroke. dohc, multivalve heads,basically what is expected in a modern sportbike today.You of course are quite correct to point out that because of continual development in every field pertaining to the ic engine the performance on every level has been dramatically increased.
How did your friend the dirt tracker make out in daytona?......nsman