Hello,
don't really know whether to post this in the engine forums or the civic forums, but since the main question deals with swaps i guess i'll post here.

I don't own a civic yet, but am looking to purchase one. i don't quite know what i want yet in terms of what year or what not, but it will largely go based on what is easiest to do what i want to do.

I want to do an engine swap - not myself mind you, but hopefully at a local shop. I want the car to be a sleeper, and i need a 4-door. i also want a manual. I was looking at the '92-'95 civic sedan and the '90 - '93 accord sedans.... i like both body styles but could settle for the '89-'91 civic sedans as well.

i have come from internet researching to realize the "apparent" golden swap is the B16a for the civics, or H22 for the accords?

Ultimately, which is easiest, most fun, most fuel efficient, and cheapest to do? I have a MINI Cooper S right now, and am going to sell it to make some money - i figure i can build a honda just as fast and economical and pocket some serious dough.

I have been scouring the internet looking for information regarding swaps, but i just find a lot of garbage really - no hardcore serious info. my biggest concern is WHERE to buy the swap kit from, which kit to get, and who to install it? apparently there are no places in san antonio that can do this, or at least i haven't seen on the internet. is there a page with dealers/mechanics listed in different areas anywhere? how about a step by step guide to swaps and what is recommended.

finally, if you guys were in my shoes, which car and swap would you do? keep in mind i DO have a budget - no more than $4 G's for the car and hopefully no more than $4 G's for the swap INSTALLED.

please, educate me!

thanks