turbos are supers are actually vastly different than merly one being driven by the engine and the other being driven by engine gases. Most superchargers don't actually compress......instead they move air quickly through the engine (this is know as a "Blower" or an "Eaton" supercharger). Centraltrenfugual (spelling?) superchargers, like Paxton or Vortech kits that goto S2000's or other popular imports, actually compress and aren't just air movers. Many people get confused that a blower and a supercharger are the same thing- they aren't.
Also, a supercharger isn't always the best for towing. Come to think of it, I have never seen a factory supercharged diesel, only factory turbocharged diesels (partly due to the ridicously high compression ratios and the fact they have 3,000 RPM redlines, however).
And superchargers aren't reserved for "old school" V-8's and engines with pushrods only. Doesn't the Mini Cooper S come with a 1.6L, 16V SOHC supercharged in-line 4 cylinder engine?Audi and Mercedes have been making twin-turbocharged V-8's for a long time, too, even though they may have DOHC cylinder heads.
For a DSM or any other small engined import, it is a real toss up. I believe a turbo is better, however, because the fastest land-speed piston powered factory car was a twin-turbocharged Sledgehammer Corvette. However, the all-out fastest land speed piston powered car was driven by twin blown Chevy V-8's.
Besides, horsepower means nothing to accleation, because it is torque that actually gets the car going, and horsepower is top-end speed. Ask any NHRA or IHRA drag racer.
Just my 2 cents, but I would stick with a turbo.
Dave
... I think a S/C // T/C setup would be the end of my sanity
