Depending on money go w/ a JDM B16 cable tanny or B18C1 Gsr. The B16 has 160 hp & a B18C has 180 hp Jdm or Usdm 170. You can get a cable to hydro kit. The other option is get another B18A & get a B16 head or B18C Gsr or Type R head. Have a shop do it unless you know what you're doing.
Alot of guys like the LS/Vtec setup. It's know to have alot of torque.
The other thing is are you planning All motor or Turbo?

Good Luck