Actually, the 3.6 or 3.8 isn't that much more work- talk to Tholyoak as he has done plenty, and is just finishing a 3.8 into an 01 S. I am also planning a 3.8 into my car one of these days, I'm just waiting to find the right motor, which in the current economy, might not be too difficult
And yes, I agree, its sickening how cheap things have gotten. I just picked up a new winter car, and wound up with a 98 BMW 740i with a 60k motor and a brand new transmission, as well as new brakes, exhaust, suspension bits and 18" BBS RK's for $4k. The body is about average for its age, the interior is pretty nice, but either way, I'm not going to complain!