3SGE Beams VS 4AGE Blacktop 6SPD Options

[JoKeRkId613]

I will be getting a redtop Beams 3SGE in my Celica around mid-May. But I'm curious as to which engine really is better. I mean, if the ST205 was the exact same engine except no turbo, how much HP would it put out approximately, compared to the already NA Beams. I think Beams puts out 200HP(please correct me, if wrong...)? Thanks. I guess maybe what I'm trying to figrue out is if you stuck some low-comp pistons in the Beams and some other minor mods and the same CT26 or CT20 turbo, would it have more horses and be more powerful than the factory ST205?

Also, I'm real stuck between the Beams and 4AGE blacktop 6 speed. What would you guys choose? and why? Price isn't an issue and both engines will be left stock, maybe minor mods(Intake, Headers, Exhaust)...

Some advantages I see with the blacktop is that since my car is a coupe, I already have a tiny bit of weight advantage over a hatchback and the blacktop being a 1.6L will keep me at lower weight and it has 6speeds.

[Ronan]

Ive had both the 20v blacktop in my Levin and the Beams in my SS-III. The Beams is a better base for building power. To get a blacktop (better then the silvertop IMO) to even the same power as a standard Beams would be VERY expensive. Youd be much better off putting that money into the Beams.

But that doesnt make the 4A-GE 20v blacktop any less of a great engine. 8k rpm plus 6 speed gear box is ALOT of fun to drive. High revs plus short gears always puts a smile on my face. The 3S-GE Beams only revs to 7k and has 5 LONG gears, too long in my opinion. Having such long gears is a problem when all your power is literally at the redline.

My 20v Blacktop:

http://www.bebo.com/PhotoAlbum.jsp?PhotoAlbumId=4048222346

My Beams: