i run a b16a with b16b. the b16b head flows better than the b16a, so youll have a better intake charge. the ctr head will raise your compression by .2 because the head has been decked from the factory to help establish more compression, which is aided by the pistons.

this is what i have, and this is what i will always have as far as im concerned. b18c's are good engines, but id kill for my b16. the fact is you can balance and blueprint everything you can, strengthen everything, and reinforce everything and youd be able to spin up to 12,500. but 12,5 isnt reasonable so it should come down to price. and with 1200 bucks to spare, a good top end isnt out of reach. get crower springs, strengthen your stock valves, maybe buy ti retainers, get a ctr cam with some adj gears, and spend 300-400 for head work.