The pre-93 200E used the M102 block with 122 BHP, while the 1.8 puts out 109 BHP. The 200E probably has 500 pounds on the 1.8, so the performance is probably comparable, with a slight edge to the 1.8 in getting off the line and fuel economy, but not by much.

Based on the same M102 engine, the two cars have the same issues, particularly the head gasket, chain tensioner, valve seals and undersized a/c system (assuming that the 1.8 has that option.)