well, the sp will supposedly smoke the non-sp in power, and ves engines are supposed to also get better fuel milage. oil consumption is waaaaay worse for a ves though, around 100 miles to a quart- mine is right around 250-300/quart (non-ves) reliability is really a toss up i think. that engine is a proven reliable polaris powerplant, and i've never has a problem with mine in 3000 miles. and i love it!! wouldn't mind a bit more power, but it's enough to kill me and keep up with my bro's 98 xc 600 on hardpack. i personally would go with the sp because of little things like better shocks (correct me if i'm wrong but i thought the 01 sp's had heavier shocks) and the increased power. if you get the sp and don't like it, i'd be happy to trade for a non ves
When in doubt- Throttle out!
'99 XC SP 500

When in doubt- Throttle out!
'99 XC SP 500