2.0 vs 1.8, really now, is there a true difference? Options

[lostmybaby]

I posted on this board about 4 days ago after being saddend by the loss of my 1976 914. The car was crunched by an escort and considered a loss by the insurance company. My mechanic can not find anything wrong with the suspension, however the rear back wheel appears to be 'hyperextended' pushing out from the bottom away from the car.
Plus, some brake calipers need replacing, the clutch -after driving for a while- the clutch cable makes a grinding noise when you push on the pedal (may just be a bushing?). Well you add all of that to the ugly dent in the side and I've been shopping for another car.
HERE IS THE QUESTION: I HAD a 2.0 liter engine that was strong and way too reliable to be simply mechanical. The oil return tubes needed to be replaced as they leaked oil, but I actually liked knowing where I parked by my spot!!!
So, I'm looking at 1.8 liter cars and want to know, other than the numbers (1.8 -2.0) will I really notice a difference when driving. Is the 1.8 that much more sluggish??? etc.,
My options are to drop the 2.0 engine into the 914 I purchase and sell the 1.8L engine.
Now, I'm just casting this question to the lords of the 914 to determine which route 'they' would choose.

THANKS EVERYONE FOR HELPING ME DETERMINE THE PRICE OF MY CAR. IT REALLY HELPED ME DEAL WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANY!!!!
GREATEST 914 BOARD ON THE NET>

[Bleyseng]

Depends on how many miles are on the motor. Price for a 76 2.0 w/FI $750 to 1000 engine.
I am not saying 2.0l cars are FAST, just faster than a 1.8. 73's didn't come with a 1.8, some came with the 72hp 1.7. Could be that they rebuild the engine with 93mm pistons and cylinders and rebuilt heads. Now I wonder what pistons they used.
On the 70 914 I just junked the PO had rebuilt the motor, OK I thought I could sell it. I took it apart and they used 93mm bus pistons and 2.0l bus heads making a 80hp have a whopping 67hp. I recycled it.....
One way to make a 914 is to use smaller diameter tires. Get rid of those 185x65's and get some 195x50's to get a gearing change. Helps alot.
The other thing I have noticed driving other guy's cars is they rarely have them tuned. Just parts slapped on, and not making sure the fuel mixture (carbs or FI ) is set right. Makes a difference, or is this just a Seattle cheapsonobitch thing.
Geoff