Biggest disadvantage of the 163hp pre-facelift model is the tall gear ratios. Significantly shorter ratios are used in the post facelift S and this provides better driveability in especially 1st and 2nd gear. It just feels more responsive. If you are going to
mod, you will have more hp than the facelift models in any case and the more power you have the lesser the gear ratio disadvantage becomes. I have a pre-facelift
MCS with the 210hp
JCW upgrade - will be installing a GTT oversize crank pulley shortly to specifically have more torque available in the lower rev range - the area most influenced by the gear ratios. The facelift models are also of a higher build quality - if you can go for facelift.