I picked up a 2001 long block for $500 w/ 13k on it. Your pre 2000 has an IMRC so I'd stick with swapping a low mile pre2000 myself. The performance is the same between years. Look to spend about $800 for a low mile long block. Even a lot less of you just need the block. Try http://www.greenleafauto.com/index.htm They can ship one to their nearest location to you.

-'96 SE MTX 3L -'98 SVT 1,173 of 6,535 -'05 Mazda 6s, loaded, g/f's ride -Need a 96-00 manual on CD? PM or email me