These engines look identical on paper, but the driving experience says otherwise.

Comparing an '84 GL (B23F) to an '89 DL (B230F), both with manual transmission and a 3.31 final drive, my impression is that the '84 is more of a 'road car.' It is somewhat anemic around town but responds with gusto over 70 in top gear. On the other hand, the '89 feels as though it posseses more low-end torque than the '84 depsite the fact that both motors are rated for 137 ft-lbs. @ 2,750 rpm.

I've read that the B230F is a lighter engine because it uses an alloy block (B23F block is cast iron) as well as smaller/lighter internal components - rods, bearings, pistons, etc. I'm wondering if this accounts for the difference, or if it has more to do with differences in the way the ECU's are programmed and, if so, can you swap ECU's to alter the performance of the car. I think I remember reading something about a recall or update for the early LH 2.0 ECU's that was supposed to improve low speed performance?

Thanks,
-Chuck