I hear ya, but i guess if you think about it, he would have to save up to build the block after the kit anyway, and might need new fuel/turbo components. So for a non-mechanic its probably quite similar price wise.
I can understand ya not wanting to let that beauty go. I've never been in a funner car than dave's turbo civic. Nothing like putting down 300-400whp and weighing in at 2700- lbs.