In USA you will say that nothing can beat cubic inc. I can say that yes can be, modern diesel engine. Here in Europe diesel engines are popular. My favorite to all day drive is BMW 2.0 diesel+ 8 gear auto tyranny. This engine has max tq 280 lbf ft and max hp 180. Max tq is jut in area what I will normally use 1750-2750 rpm. If I really want performace then my choise is BMW 335 diesel(3,0 ltr) max tq 464 lbf ft and 313 hp and diesel consuption 43,5 MPG. 0-100km/h 4,8 s. This mean performace! By the way 335 gasoline TQ 295 lbf ft and 306 hp. 0-100 5,0s. Fuel consuption 30,9 MPG. Comparing this two BMW 335 engines you can easily see what torque will make performance.
In Harley engine I love low, mid range TQ. Because this is just perfect on the long stroke engine and same time heavy bike. Low, mid range is area what I will mostly use, where seldom over 4000rpm. Torque on that area make heavy bike to very easy and good to drive.