[JP Noonan]

Kind of short on time right now, but I'll try to skim over it for you.

Option Four: In the states anyway new big bore pistons and liners for a 1.7L are $150-$165. The bottom end could be left alone, but it probably needs to be rebuilt.

Take of the heads and see if the compression loss is from a burnt valve. If that's the case just put some good used 1.7L heads on. 914 and VW 1.7L heads I think are all the same. This may be your cheapest/best route because you're not investing a lot of time and money into a worn out block.

Look around the past postings, I've discussed the many differences between 914 and bus blocks. At the very least get a pre 80 block (the 80-83 have a cast over oil filler and rectangular exhaust ports). Aslo look closely at the oil dipstick/filler area. On my 78 bus engine it looked like it would hit the engine mount bar. The flywheels are different, and later buses had hydro lifters.

Ask the place rebuilding the motor how much extra to put in a different (914 specific) cam if they are putting in a new cam anyway. Also ask if higher compression pistons can be used and how much. About the unleaded, as far as I know ALL aluminium head VW motors have cast iron valve seats, so thet ALL work with unleaded, just use the highest octane you can, or if it still knocks retard the timing a little.