In some situations it makes sense. For example my accord was available in other markets with a 200hp 2.2L high revving twin cam, as opposed to the 130-145hp single cams that are available in the US. Came out of the same factory in Ohio as my car, then got shipped overseas.
Another example is if you have already done most of a build on your car. Although it would have made more sense to start with the engine you wanted.
But if you have a relatively stock car, and there are many examples of the same car with the engine you want on the market, you’re right, it doesn’t make sense.