Whats the difference between the 1980 Distributor and the 1981-1985 Distributor

 

81-85 have provisions to mount the igniters right on the dizzy.

 

Would that be better for me to get to do the direct fire setup?

I can get a new one for an 81 for $265.00 from the auto store.

 

Ow. Why buy new? Find a good used one. I see them on ebay for $50 with igniters sometimes even.

Oh and to answer your question, no its not better. Either will be fine.

 

I've bought 3 or 4 of 'em from junkyards for $45 with coils. Good ones, too. The '80 units can be problematic due to the long wire run from the distributor to the ignitors causing inconsistent triggering. For that reason I recommend getting the '81 and newer units.