I studied oil viscosity while in high school. In the 1970s there was a lack of shear stability due to lesser base oils, fuel dilution and inferior additives. Big, powerful engines ended up running on 10? and 20 grade motor oils. So thin oils in SI engines is nothing new.
For decades now millions of cars, trucks and big SUVs have been running on 20 grade oils without ill effects. These thinner oils result in better fuel economy, more power and improved get up and go especially when we are driving shorter distances with each turn of the key. And thinner oils are on the way.
It seems that the bigoted opinions on thinner oils will persist. The myriad of SAE papers, historical data, and independent testing just cannot change the biased thinking of otherwise intelligent people.
FYI: The owner of Ferrari of Tampa Bay just bought my Enzo after exhaustive testing in the shop. The engine was as good as new according to the mechanics analysis, actually better than any Enzo motor they have ever seen or cared for. Incidentally, I have run nothing but 0-20 and 0-30 grade oils in the engine that is spec'ed for a 10W-60 oil. Studies will continue in the 812 Superfast. It is spec'ed for a 5-40 and has 150 more HP than the Enzo.
AEHaas