Hey guys I would like to start rebuilding an engine for my mk 2 escort. Im not sure whether to go 1600 or 2ltr, what do you guys think.

no brainer  ......basically 25% more power in a 2 litre Esky !   .....why I fell in love with my V6 Capri over a 4 cyl !

Thanks mate, yea I did think that people would rather the 2ltr.

My Capri was a 1600, I did a 2l, 5 speed gearbox swap it has made it a great car to drive. At the time I picked up a complete setup radiator to drive shaft from a MK3 imported from NZ.

I know the 2ltr is a quicker engine, but I like the 1600 as well its a hard reving engine which I like about it. Ive been hunting around for a 5 speed gearbox but haven't had any luck yet.

For outright power, yeah put a pinto in it. However as you said the pushrod is a great revving little unit, if theres one already in there putting on a weber carb and a set of headers would be an easy option to up power.
Not sure about 5 speeds for 1600's but a 3.54 diff from a two litre should help keep the revs down on the highway...
Cheers Drew

Thanks for the help guys, I have a 1600 and a 2ltr sitting in my shed. Maybe I will do them both up and swap them at my leisure.