A straight 8 was better for bragging rights at the time, but a straight 6 has perfect primary and secondary balance and is thus inherently a smoother engine, and is also much more practical for crankshaft length. Eight cylinders belong in a V block IMHO. But it's a nice car regardless.

Speaking of V8 engines, I'd probably want a Ford of that era. But swapping the flathead V8 for a modern 5-liter would make it a lot more powerful and practical.