Aircraft engines usually operate at a relatively fixed RPM with constant speed props -- 1200 or 2500 (or something close) so that the prop speed plus airframe speed doesn't go supersonic. Should be a prefect match for a diesel engine, not that the horsepower to weight ratio is so high.

Someone used to make an aircraft version of the Chevy 454 aluminum block, too -- 950 or 1000 max horsepower depending on installation, supposedly they were superb.

Anybody for reviving the Napier Nomad?

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!