i've driven 1.6, 1.8 and currently have a ligtly modded 2l.

the 1.6 was pathetic for the roads round my way. country roads, bit hilly. my 145-150bhp 2l doesnt struggle at all where as the 1.6 did ALL the time.

i also like having the 2l for ease of overtaking...the less time spent on the wrong side of the road the better and safer the overtake!