Thanks for the positive responses and those that 'get' what my goals were with the car. You may have more engine options down there than I do here but there is nothing (here) that would have the output (and more potential), be reliable, and be available cheap as hell at any scrapyard.
If I had more money, or wanted a canyon carver, no doubt I would have gone with something else. But I'm a cheapass college student living in Orlando; no hills, straight roads, the car fits my needs perfectly :lolcry:
I wish there were more old school Corolla's around here, but just aren't that many still running around