I have just about a month with a .980 motor (1992 CE) and while I'm new to the 104 I've had two 103s.

I also have come to like the powerband very much but it took a while as it is so different from the M103 and it takes some getting used to. My M103 cars were silky smooth and seemed strong from the bottom through the middle. The .980 motor seems very thin on the bottom until you figure out that you just have to drive it differently. As soon as you decide to use your right foot more aggresively you find the beauty. Man this thing goes! The 7 grand redline is real and at anything over three is just picks up and goes. I like it alot.

It's not just top end either - throttle response is immediate from freeway cruise speed as well.

The only disclosure element here is that I have no experience with the 104.992 variable valve timing motor. Common sense says that this should deliver more bottom and easier transition to higher engine speeds but perhaps not as linear a progression of power right to the top. Anyone driven both?