Gizmo,
In post 23, you implied that there was no difference in performance between the Magnum and OS engines in terms of comparing two LT-40's with these engines. Your post was in essence an invitation to observe to two aircraft in flight. Cost and reliability can't be observed in this manner, only performance.

My point in turn was to highlight that the LT-40 is very tolerant of a wide range of power options, therefore a slight difference would be unnoticeable.

I realize that the FS70 is a long way from the original question, and that is precisely the point. It takes a big step up in power (and weight) to make an obvious difference in performance. I also stated that I wouldn't recommend this combo to a beginner anyway....

As for cost and reliability, I didn't mention it. I don't have a Magnum engine so I can't comment on it.