overall the 16v is quicker, but until 4000rpm the 8v just feels quicker and is quicker, no matter what you will say. Most of the drivers who have tried the 8v and 16v say so. My experience says the same. MORE VALVES MEANS MORE POWER AT HIGHER REVS!!! AND THAT'S JUST NOT FOR TOWN DRIVING.
For motorway and drag racing the 16v wins, but for nice, quick everyday town driving, cheap insurance NO f**kING WAY!
If you need to piss a 16v in a drag racing get some mods. IT'S CHEAP!