Chevy 307 wasn't all that great that is for sure but the first year or so was a lot better then the junk 307 GM used in the '80s. And yep you are right with a stock setup they are el sucko. I'd would have rather had a 283 or a 327 in that Cutlass I had when first bought it. Could have done a lot with either engine vs a 307 that can make if you are lucky 250 and that is if you spend a ton of money on it. But I have seen it done just to keep the Cutlass "OEM" in all aspects

. Just pull the engine out stick it on a engine stand and cover it for when you sell it & put in what you want.