Can I put a 2002-2003 motor in a 1996?
 

I have a lead on a 2002 or 2003 motor. Can I put that in my 1996? If so, what special things do I have to do?

Yes. Search on M.net forums for folks that've done the swap. You have to come up with a solution for VICS, I believe, and there are a couple ways to solve this.

yes, but it may not be the best motor for FI.

I would look for any 1.8 from 94-00 and a 99-00 head.

How about a 96 motor and a 2003 head?

better, but besides the vics you also have the variable valve timing.

VTCS... variable tumble control system is what the 01+ motor has. It can be actuated with a switch. It decreases the flow area in the runners for better flow velocity at low engine temps.

though on a boosted car I noticed better cold start drivability with a coolant temp AND pressure (vac really) switch at sub-WOT.