I do agree that a 160 bhp inline 6 in a bike or a Caterham would be an earthshaking experience. Although that new BMW turbo 4 would be as well.
And, Turbo, I only suggested that I, me, myself, would as soon have a turbo 4 BMW than a L6 atmospheric engine. Assuming that the 4 was cheaper and hopefully had a higher specific output than the 6. I also agree that V6 engines are a bit nasty ( Dino 246 excepted) and I have never owned a V8.
Agree with pretty well everything you say.
Sad about not owning a V8. Have had a number of them, and one V12 actually, but a good V8 is a heck of a sweet engine. The Hemi in my 300C is just as fine an automotive experience as I have ever had. Such a sweet, sweet engine.