Whitch 1 would be best for my 98-5 speed , i have a 2.2 in there now ...

just from what i heard...now take note that i JUST got my cavalier 4 days ago...and to every journeyman i showed my car to in 2 of my local shops all of them seen the z24 badge and said "oh @!#$ you got that time bomb @!#$ 2.4 engine?" then i popped my hood and they say " OH it has a a2.2 eco...nice very good engine and VERy easy to work on and releiable...MUCH better than the 2.4"

now i donno why but liek i said i dont knwo much about cavaliers yet....this is just what i been hearing from almost every journeyman that sees my car...

Swapping a 2.2 eco in there is a very big job on that year. Everything has to be changed.

All wiring, all fuel lines, fuel tank setup, evap, motor, trans mounts. Its a very big job and it you dont have a donor car I feel not worth it. Ive done it and regretted it when I did. I would simply boost the 2.2 ohv you have in there now and be happy.

Well, to start with, "best" is a nebulous term. Best for what? Fuel mileage? Reliability? Performance?

In order to get recommendations, you need to let us know what your goals are.

2.4 z24 engine will drop in but you will need ecu and trans with the 2.4. to put an ecotec be like dude said way to much work. 2.4 150hp 2.2 eco 140hp but 50lbs lighter.