Hi Shafs, I think that the engine is the same with some face lift. I know that there is a demo aircraft in Tyabb right now which I have flown! When the engine is going, it is rather quiet with the top opened. I was rather surprised that the canopy is rather ridget as the prop wash did not bother it much.
If I had a deep pocket I would get that aircraft, NVFR, auto pilot (height and turn), toe brakes (I think they come std), carby heat, heating and cooling in the cabin, EFIS, GPS, Transponder, 2 channel radio, constant speed prop (in flight adjustable), trim/autopilot/radio on stick, and the list goes on. What a Plane! Even tough I will not use some of the features, it is a fantastic plane.
Regards,
EJ