engine upgrade help

im looking to change my engine from a 1.3 carb to a gti but i dont know what i really want a turbo but i dont have time so im looking at possibly a 1.8 8 valve or 1.8 16 valve but im not sure which is better ??? i know you have all probably read a post like this before but im really stuck please help

Depends what you say is better - faster? more power? more torque?

Cheaper to install?
more plentiful?
easier to install?
cheaper insurance?
greater fuel economy?


1.8 16V is better than 1.8 8V on the good things and 8V is better on the boring things (but then the 1.3 carb is better on them boring things too).

There's plenty of posts on 16V conversions, and plenty on 1.3 –> 1.8 8V too. All a bit vague though, until you get stuck in, come across a problem and need specific details, then you can search on specifics or pose a qn etc if you can't find.

how much harder is the 16 valve to install ? is it worth the extra time ? and will it fit on my subframe or will i need to replace that too ??

It depends on your skills, tools and other facilities as to whats hard or easy for you. Its harder but worth it.

The Mk1 Golf doesn't have a subframe. The 16V has the same bolt holes to allow the same engine mounts to be used, though.

i like the its harder but worth it part so ill look into it. thanks paul