I have noticed that indeed newer cars are being listed as 'more powerful' in recent advertisements. However, I also remember laughing hysterically at a commercial advertisement for "The new, improved model with the INCREDIBLY powerful one hundred and twenty-five horsepower engine!!!"
I think you overlooked the part as well when I specified that what was under the hood in My auto was not by any stretch of the imagination a standard powerplant. Disregarding for the moment the electical changes I implemented in the vehicle as well due to the fact that they had little to do with the motor. I loved that car because no matter what happened I could always repair it, no matter what. I specifically modified the powerplant as a proof-of-concept platform, but those older cars I have a passion for because of their simplicity. They 'Just Work'. My preferred auto would be a customized Model T, incidentally.
You and me both!