what engine should I get?
 

Hey so I have to replace the engine in my car, and I'm trying to figure out some information. I have a 1997 honda civic ex 1.6 liter vtec and I'm pretty much a noob when it comes to working on/with cars.
First off, what happened is that my car overheated, and afterwards was making some weird noises. It sounded like, according to a friend, that it was something in the valves, but when my dad checked it out, it wasn't from the valves, the water pump, etc. and he concluded that it has to be from the engine.
I've been looking online for engines and it seems like the vtec's are way more expensive than non vtec. I'm wondering if its worth it to buy the vtec engine or if it would be beneficial to buy the non vtech and then put in the vtec head later.
Also, I'm looking to see if maybe there is a cheaper option of engine than the d16y8/d16y7 that is compatible with the 97 civic with little to no swapping of other parts.
Any help would be thoroughly appreciated!

d16y8/d16y7 are the cheapest you are going to get. lol

Go with a vtec engine opposed to a non vtec with a vtec head. Buy the same d16y8 motor and everything should plug right up

why get a vtec in the fist place if your only concerned about having a drivable car. vtec or no vtec its still going to be a slow azz car.