The 97 is about 165 CFM, way too small (smaller than a Rochester "B" for a 216) for best peak power.
2 major reasons why they were used on V8s back in the day:
1. the Holley 4150 only dates to 1955.
2. the common log manifold with a big cross-over means every cylinder is fed by all the carburetors.
How unfortunate that Stromberg 81, 97 carburetors that are not completely trashed are priced the same as rubies
I've never seen one with the throttle shaft split (which is how all Harpers TIKO work).
Obviously, you can use 3 stock 97s simultaneously (not progressive using the center as the primary) but the entire concept of progressive operation is lost.
If you find a Harper for the wrong brand, an amazing number of L6 vintage engines (OHV and flathead) have 3 siamese intake ports* between 1-1/4" and 1-3/4", and a simple adapter plate to swap the bolt pattern and transition the size (in either direction) fixes that. The center distances: cut & splice the connecting tubes.
Have fun!
* Some older L6 have 4 intake ports, see it before you buy.
