I have to disagree a bit- monster torque is great for towing if you do not want to shift to a lower gear and economy is not an issue. Transmissions are built to trade convert hp (high rpm) for torque- they are really torque multipliers. Variable timing provides an aid for an engine to produce good torque numbers in both high AND low rpm ranges, not either/or like conventional camshaft timing. In reality, it is better for the engine to shift down to a higherr gear (to pull a long grade) than to lug the engine.
The only red flag Id have regarding some of the Jap/Euoropean peak-HP wonders involves turbocharging. Towing is murder on a turbocharged GASOLINE motor (diesel motors tow very well with turbocharging...). The problem involves heat generation and detonation, a devestating byproduct of high heat.
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