That really depends on how you define "better", does it not?
The Saturn V's Rocketdyne F-1 main engines were exactly what they were designed to be - honking great rockets that guzzled fuel and threw out noise, light and plenty of thrust. But they were not efficient compared to what is available today.
The Shuttle's RS-25's still put out plenty of power and they offer almost 50% extra specific impulse.
That said, yes, destroying the plans was utterly idiotic.
That really depends on how you define "better", does it not?
The Saturn V's Rocketdyne F-1 main engines were exactly what they were designed to be - honking great rockets that guzzled fuel and threw out noise, light and plenty of thrust. But they were not efficient compared to what is available today.
The Shuttle's RS-25's still put out plenty of power and they offer almost 50% extra specific impulse.
That said, yes, destroying the plans was utterly idiotic.