I agree with your sentiments 100% I don't think there was ever a more reliable helicopter than the SA 318C with the Astazou IIA engine that was ever built! Lots of time with them in the '70s also and other than the (very) odd electrical glitch starting in sub zero temperatures they never failed to amaze me. Everyone who spent any time with one at all in cold weather soon learned the "1 jumps over 2" trick for the cannon plugs on the P-2 switch, start valve etc.
One of the best analogies I ever heard was a half ton truck with rotor blades; reliable and solid! However they did like to drink fuel and the cost of engine overhauls was incredibly expensive. But they never quit and sure gave you a feeling of confidence in your aircraft, go any where, any time.
But still, probably my favorite helicopter of all time.