Chrysler 318 - A powerplant to brag about - 400 vs. 600 horsepower???

I remember an old Hot Rod Magazine article where they made 600+ horsepower from a Chrysler 318 with 8 Weber carbs.  I was somewhat disappointed when I read the more recent "318 a powerplant to brag about" article that made horsepower in the low 400 range.  Would this motor have something to brag about if the motor from the earlier article showed up?  Do you think popularhotrodding could beat the old 600 HP motor, or has our imagination and technology made our engines weaker?    

a 318 with a $1000 Webber setup, making 600hp? At what RPM, 6900?

I think the 400hp article is probably more realistic...just guessing.  
Just because you can't do it...doesn't mean its impossible

the whole point of the "cheap mean 318" article wasn't ultimate horsepower but easy solid reliable street power from a often overlooked source. People underestimate the potential of the 318 and will give them away. I have 3 now with zero investment. A used 360 block starts around $150 bare so I'm $450 ahead. Thats money I can put into better parts. Steve had around $5000 into the 318 and the same power as a factory rated hemi. For another $700 or so you can add a 4" stroke & forged pistons. That would add some real torque to a "318" A-body! The "cheap mean 318" article was in the winter 20008 Engine Masters Mag.