Hi Ray,
Sorry, I haven't driven - +8 so unable to compare to my 70th Anniversary 4/4 1.8 Duratec with sports exhaust.
But, I like this engine and power and torque are more than acceptable. Short shifting is not a problem and pulls OK in higher gears at lowish revs. I'm happy.
My only criticism of the drive train is a notchy gear box until the oil warms up.
Regards