I've gotta side with the guys who say to go with the LA engine. I have one on my Avistar trainer and I couldn't be happier with it. Having a trainer that won't hover (an exageration of course) is not a bad thing. Learn to fly first and then overpower the snot out of your next pane if that's your bag. I've noticed a common theme throughout most of these threads. It seems that everyone wants to overpower their planes to the point that they're flying this massive engine with wings. In my opinion, it's better to learn to fly a plane that isn't overpowered for the reasons stated above by Chuck. In fact, even on my 2nd plane which is a 4* 40, I run a Super Tiger .40. Guess what? IT FLIES GREAT despite the fact that 90% of people on here will tell me it's "underpowered" (even though Sig recommends running a .35 to .40 engine) As far as the cost goes, the LA is rather inexpensive and is quite reliable. Keep that engine on your trainer and then spring for the "good" engine on your next plane.

Whatever you choose, have fun and enjoy