Technically... big block/small block is all relative to the diameter of the cylinder and the distance of piston movement. If the piston moves less (or the same) distance up and down than the pistons diameter, then I believe it's a big block... Don't quote me on that last part... I can never remember which ratio is BB or SB. I just pretty sure it's directly related to the ratio.
The
TRX 2.5, it's diameter is the same as the piston throw, so technically, it's a big block. There are some other small crank case engines that are like that for a specific purpose. I think it adds more torque.
Regardless... typically in RC when a reference is made to small block vs big block, it is a reference to the size of the crank case housing itself.
It's easier to see/understand when you see the enignes side by side.
This is a photo of a 21 big block compared to a 18 small block:
Link to photo
The top engine is a Omega 21, the lower engine is an OS 18 CV-R. Notice how much shorter the crank case is and how much slimmer the area is where the piston goes. The heads are almost the same size. If you looked at them both from the back or front of the engine, you would also see how much fatter the 21 is. This size difference of the crank case is what requires a conversion kit of some sort or a manufactured engine mount. You would also need a different exhaust as most big blocks run a much larger exhaust port.