Me and my BF are building a mk3 fiesta to race on the strip..

Just have a few queries as to which engine is the best to use, we thought it would be best askin the questions in here as most are about the blacktop zetec and this is what is fitted in the focus.. The information we have so far is this..

* 2ltr Black top zetec

We have been told that the blacktop zetec has:

Longer rods.. (whats the difference between long and short?)
Lower piston crowns.. (whats the difference between lower and higher?)
Mechanical lifters.. (is mechanical better than hydraulic?)
Plastic cam cover.. (would swopping the cam cover back to aluminium be better for heat soak?)

Is the 2ltr the best base unit to build a 180whp engine?


* RS 1800/XR3i varientations

We have been told that if we buy a 115bhp zetec we can get it up to 130bhp by just changing the cams and by using a RS1800 ECU. Would this be the best option? Or would it be better to start off with a 1800 / XR3i 130ps block?


* ST170 engine

Is it worth starting with an ST170 engine or can the power be had from the zetec just as easy, as we have heard that the ST170 engine is pretty much at maximum power? What are peoples opinions on this?

Is there an off the shelf kit to fit the 2ltr or 1800 in to the zetec and which is the best base model to start with? I.E XR2i, RS1800, Si etc etc..
We have been told that the 1600 Si is the best one to start with, is this true or not? Is there anywhere where you can guy uprated cams, rods, pistons etc... Around South Yorkshire, or is it all mail order? If so, which websites are the best ones to look at??

We are wanting to fit ST170 brakes or Escort RS2000 brakes to the fiesta, which are the best in your opinion? Where is the best place to get an after market manifold and will a cosworth inlet plenom for a 2.3 duratec fit a zetec block?


Thanks

Kelly