Carburetor or FI?

[HersheyPAGreg]

I'd suggest checking with your state DMV and other classic car owners about the safety and emissions inspection requirements for various years. Also investigate the various ways you can register and drive your car vs. those inspection requirements. There are websites, some by famous publications, that provide this info in tabular form, but don't rely on them alone. After you get the good skinny, then decide on the model year(s) which are most advantageous to you. The answer to carb vs. FI may have already been decided by your state (or commonwealth ).

I will probably register the vehicle as either a classic or an antique. In PA, antique vehicles are not subject to the annual vehicle safety inspection, classic vehicles must have an annual safety inspection. Antique and classic vehicles aren't subject to emissions inspection, so I could remove any emissions devices the car might come with for better performance yes?

[HersheyPAGreg]

I agree, there is no right answer. In stock form the EFI cars are stronger, especially compared to the smog dog years. If your state requires emissions testing, I'd try to get an early model or a FI model. If you are emissions exempt even the smoggers can run great with a few mods. There is less you can do to increase power on the FI, but they also start out with alot more than some years. I have one of each and I have to admit that for road trips or leisurely cruises you can't beat the torque of the FI 2.0, (good for spouses that like to lug it, too). I have a complete FI setup I got from Ralph and I'm thinking about trying it out on my lil 1438.

You could be right about there being no right answer. I like the looks of the 79 and up Spiders, the big bumps on the hood, the factory wheels, the steering wheel, you name it. I'm apparently even one of the few on this board who doesn't mind the big tube bumpers. But I'd probably be willing to buy an older Spider in really great condition too. Doug/Exit 98 sent me a link to a very nice 74 for sale on Craigslist in Indiana about 2 months ago, unfortunately I'm not ready to buy until around November. I guess it will probably come down to the best car, carb or fi, available at the time. Thanks to all for your input.