Yes and no. The best auto comparison to the AK as far as simplicity, reliability, style, serviceability and longevity would be a slant six Valiant!
It was so easy to work on the old Slant-Six in my 73 Dodge Dart.
I had a 225 slant six in a Plymouth Satellite wagon that was my first car. It was great for loading up with motorcycle gear and towing dirt bikes. Really smooth engine.