yes, the 3.8 was the gt engine option on these year cieras.

as to the relative condition of things-

-the car is not eaten out with rust.

-all sytems, ie lines, vacuum hoses, plugs and wires are in good shape. car has been carefully maintained.

based upon comments here, as well as from what i have been able to gather from the local mechanics i have talked to today about the feasibility/reasonableness of such an engine swap attempt, it appears to be a non-starter.

so, what risk do i enjoy by continuing to drive it locally?

thanks for all the help and comments. lakeside

on a lake in middle tn '98 mystique ls duratec atx de-badged, pin striped pre '98 sail panels b pillar black out mod silverstars- turns and highs in lows fogs on with parking lights mod