Marco2002 1999 Celica GT project, Beams or 3SGTE Options

[marco2002]

Hello all ....new to this forum. I have two Celica's. Just finished my daughters 2004 Celica GT and she loves it. Complete restoration (Stock). I her father just picked up this 1999 Celica Gt from a person I did IT work for and he ended up just giving it to me! Yes the engine is blown. But the Body paint and interior are excellent. Since the engine and trans were removed when I got the celica (Still have both) I am contermplating on dropping in either a Beams red top or 3sgte engine. The donor car is an automatic but since everything is out of the car...it would be a great time to swap over to a 5 speed setup. Asking on advice on what direction I should go. Have a budget of 5-6k. thanks!

[TimeslideZ]

Beams is good if you're okay w/ the NA 200 hp. Else if you want more then the 3sgte is the way to go.
In regards to motor generation, if you plan to keep it below 400 hp the 4th gen will do you fine. Anything more than the 3rd gen is the way to go.
Here's a quick comparison of them: http://www.6gc.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=97084

Good luck w/ the swap man! If you're feeling some challenge you could also try the V6 (1mz/3mz/2gr).
Not as much aftermarket parts so to say but the (stock) parts are more widely available here in the US (junkyards).