'96 is a really nice year for the 'Birds! Depending on how much power you want in it, the 4.6 is a good way to go--If you want to leave lots of "growing space" in the horsepower department, might want to do some searching for one of the 4.6 DOHC engines. Besides the high dollar Mustang version they also came in the Mark 8 Lincoln's and some of the Navigators... Once the kid gets accustomed to the stock power levels and (of course) wants more horsepressure there are a ton of add ons available for it. A Kenne-Bell supercharger with the right cams and a bit of headwork will pump it up to a more then respectable level!!!

As for the $$$$$ deal that Don mentioned, if it had to make financial sense I would imagine 90% of the Hot Rods on the road would still be just in the dreaming stage.... I suppose when you're building for yourself $$$$ should be a concern but certainly not the only factor to be considered. Heck, if it's what you like, build it!!!