I have owned two machines with 11.5hp engines. One was a Briggs Intec snow OHV, and the other was a Tecumseh Snowking OHV.
Both have great power, the Briggs I found started easier and ran quieter. I don't know about long term reliability with regards to the briggs because I didn't own one that long, BUT I did own a 12hp tecumseh OHV that was on a Noma 33 in blower and it lasted 16 years . Then I sold it to a friend and it still runs great.
I drive neither Ford nor Chevy. I drive a Dodge!
Ariens 11528 snowthrower, Craftsman 18hp lawn tractor, Craftsman 5hp lawn mower, Craftsman 4.25hp pressure washer, Stihl BG55 leaf blower and vac, Stihl SH26 string trimmer, Husqvarna 365 special Chainsaw, Husqvarna 254XP chainsaw.