Something I have been curious about: How can the likes of GM, Dodge make high HP engines utilizing simple technology (relative to the Euros and Japanese) ? When the Euros make high HP engines, they are complex , like the BMW in the McLaren F1 of the 90s, Ferrari engines, Mercedes engines in their high-end models and the Pagani, the W16 of the Bugatti.
Look a the Dodge Demon, that thing makes 840hp (don't know if that is measured at the wheel or crank).
American engines just seem soo much simpler than European high HP ones, is that an erroneous perception ?
It would be impossible to address every issue/ question in your post without writing an entire book... however, to simplify a couple main points.
Compared to an engine like the Dodge demon has, many historical "super car" engines are 50-100 cubic inches smaller.
Also, since horsepower is made by fuel, we need air (oxygen) to burn fuel. An engine is limited by how much air it can bring in and move out. Hence, the glory of the supercharger or turbocharger. Bring in more air, and you can add more fuel= more HP.
THEN you break parts, so you make those parts stronger, then you make more HP.
We have been doing it for 100 years now, so the changes have really been incremental. But the increments lately have been pretty impressive.
Look back at a Ferrari testarossa from the Miami VICE days. It was a V-12, 4.9 liters, and made 385hp. Pretty good hp/cubic inch (or liter).
Now, add half again that much volume, then double the amount of air with a supercharger, now you can burn more fuel.... you get the idea.
Maybe you already knew these things, not saying you are stupid. Many folks just don't realize that many of today's engines are supercharged or turbocharged.