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Based on what I read (2+ sources), they said the FE and FXE are the same block, same crank, pistons on the FXE are what gives it the 13:1 mechanical compression ratio, and the heads might be a bit different because of the clearance issues with high compression.
I also read that it should be possible to put the FXE/Prius pistons in my engine to get the 13:1 compression ratio, but then I'd have to run high octane fuel, or propane/CNG. I find that pretty interesting since that seems like a pretty good compression ratios for those fuels for power and mpg.
The Atkinson cycle style design of the engine is why the power output is so much less, in theory it should be something like 15-20% more efficient on fuel. The car is only 2000lbs, so it should need a crazy amount of power to perform fine.
I like to do the math as weight to power ratio, it makes it a little easier to think of in my mind atleast. My 97 Corolla is around 2400 lbs, and is 105hp, which works out to be 22.9lbs per hp. The stock echo engine is 108hp and the car right around 2000lbs, so it works out to be around 18.5lbs per hp. If I rework the math to match the numbers up, the echo would need around an 87hp engine. With 75hp it works out to be 26.7lbs per hp. Might be a bit slow, but probably not as slow as my diesel, it takes me like a mile to get to 55mph unless I spool the turbo up and go over 2k rpm.
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