The 1600 (Sigma) is actually quite a good engine, lightweight and responsive.

Can imagine in a MK2 performance can suffer a little, due to being heavier.

The Ecoboost 1600 is based on this engine, so can't imagine it being that hard to turbo charge (you would need to lower the compression) although not the easiest route. Other than that they respond well to cam changes but as always N/A power is expensive power!

I disagree about the gearing though, I find the gearing to be tall, and the engine speed @ that roadspeed I consider to be pretty good.

Martin