As I said;
I've been told you can expect around 140bhp from a 2.0 8V, where as the 1.8 16V has 139BHP standard.
Probably quite an even match I assume. Unless anyone more clued up has more solid info.
TBH mate, whatever you choose 8V or 16V, I reckon you'll be happy with. I've got a 1.8 8V and If I give it beans, it does shift.
I've never driven a 16V, but from what I hear - It's a pretty similar drive to the 8V until you get up to the higher revs (where the 8V would normally start to lose powe, the 16V keeps on going.)
Personally, I want to save up for a VR6 or 1.8T conversion, although I'm still undecided.