Inline 6 more rare than V8 in a Shoebox?

[RatrodShoebox]

I have been (slowly) resurrecting a 49 shoebox that I dragged home off marketplace last year. It’s got the 226 Inline Six. I’m noticing in my research online that it seems the V8s were much more popular in the passenger cars. Thus, sourcing parts for the 6 is a little more troublesome as well. What do you guys think the reason was for the v8 to be a more popular option back then? To my understanding the HP ratings are pretty similar between the two. Just wanted to get everyones 2 cents.