Hi Josh,
No need to try to get the cable to the engine block. Since the battery is located in the front luggage compartment, just find a metal part of the car that is exposed (preferrably one that is attached to the frame--not onto the amplifier either) and hook it up there. You can find exposed hardware along the frame (if it's painted, just scratch off some of the paint---though, it shouldn't make too much of a difference).
BTW, there has been much discussion about jumping the battery of our cars due to the sensivity of our computer system and the possible expense that one might incur.
IMHO, if the battery is old and completely dead (interior / dash lights does not work) then maybe it's time for a new battery. (If you take this route, do not forget your radio code---usually found on a card that comes with your manual). Another alternative would be to use a trickle charger and the last alternative, IMHO, the jumper cables.
Good luck with that!
