Strange poll; too many variables to make viable statements.
F.i.: I don't want a watercooled engine in my aircooeld VW! But a stock 200 hp Subaru will always have a longer life than any tuned aircooled engine that started out as a 50 hp (type 1) or a 100hp (type 4) engine...Duh!
Most bang for the buck is not my or most peoples goal. Than everybody would have a watercooled conversion in their car...
Oh, I drive tuned beetles for 20 years and 18 of that with type 4's in my bug (and type 3's). I have never broke any engine, or took it apart because it needed an overhaul or s/th like that. They always came apart because I wanted to improve them or make them faster or both
so I really can't say anything on your poll
Best regards,
Walter