1.7 vs 2.0, which one to go Options

[Stef914]

Hi guys, still pretty new to 914's and still haven't found one ... but I'm currently looking at one model that I like and I'm ready to make an offer for it... tho I have a dilemma which I hope you guys can help me solve (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

A few weeks back I test drove a 2.0 and I remember it being pretty nippy on 1st, 2nd and up to speed ... today I test drove this 1.7 that I like, was cold and didn't want to abuse it , but I felt like the car was less powerful, which makes total sense being just a 1.7 but long story short, how much am I gonna miss those 20 hp difference ? Not planning on going racing or anything like that but just curious to hear your opinion and thoughts about this difference

Thank you

PS
It's a 1973 914 with two webber carbs and a modified ( louder ) muffler exhaust system

[bbrock]

I agree with all the advice to focus on the chassis and rust first.

That said, and all other things being equal, I find the stock 2.0L engine ideal for this car. Light and nimble with noticeably more pep than the 1.7L without sacrificing much fuel economy. The 1.7L is still a very fun car but has just enough power to make it fun. As was mentioned, I always noticed it most at on ramps. The 2L is no speed demon but I don't have any trouble reaching the 80 mph speed limit before merging onto highways here and it has just enough power to feel it pull out of corners.

There is no way to answer your question of whether you will miss those 20 ponies. Having owned and driven two 1.7L 914s and one 2L, my preference is for the 2L but that preference isn't strong enough to not consider a nice 1.7

2L cars usually also have sway bars which I think contribute as much or more to feel and performance as the larger displacement. Easy enough to add to cars that don't have them and well worth it IMO.