I like the older cylinder, they may be a bit more radical, but I think they are easier to mod, especially if you want to big bore one. I'm using a 88 cylinder on one of my newer top ends with no problems. The ports are bigger and more ho**da ish. I would say the newer motors come on smoother, whether its the cylinder or the smaller flywheel or a combination of both I'm not sure, as I recall my 89 (smaller flywheel, newer style cylinder) was really quick, but that was almost 20 years ago so my memory could be mistaken.