I have a 4/4 seems to be reliable and quite economical but the high gear ratios make the car slog a bit at times as it is a silvertop zetec packing out a 115 bhp, this is a bit weak to be honest so I personally find the 2 litre cars with 140-150 bhp about right for the chassis.
So a Plus 4 is a good compromise.
I think you would find quite a difference with the 4/4 Sport and the high revving Sigma engine - especially on super unleaded.