My FWD EA81 ('84 GL Wagon) has way more balls than my friends EA82 (85 GL Wagon 4WD). What gives? His has good power after 3K RPM but has nothing before 3K and my EA81 has plenty of power at 2K in 4th gear. Maybe it's just that I don't like the feel of such a high revving engine that I am afraid to take all that the EA82 has to offer. Maybe there is something wrong with his carbed EA82? Surely it can't be the difference between 4WD and FWD?

It certainly could be the difference. There is quite a diff in weight between the 2. Your freinds 4wd could also be suffering from tuning issues also.

seconded. he might need a tune up. cleaned carb etc.

its FWD versus 4WD. the FWD is lighter and may be geared better. It may be also in better tuned up condition.

I swear we have a echo here