I'm not sure on the engine code, but all 97-00 ELs came with the same 1.6L 127hp 4cyl, the same as the Civic EX.

Many guys in Canada have swapped in 1.8 Type R and GSR motors, and 1.6L Si motors. Not sure if anyone has put a 2.2 in one, but I bet there are some out there.

In general, anything you can do to a Civic, you can do to an EL (front bumpers will need some customizing to fit...but that's all.)