I have a '96, and I dont know whether it is from before 06/96 or after 06/96. Are there any visual cues that would distinguish it? What are the mechanical differences?

well besides the different plug for a OBD I and a OBD II. i also think the rims are different. for the base models on the 95's got those ugly holes in each spoke that looks kinda like a flower pedal. the 96-98 ones i think have solid 7 to 8 spokes. i'm not sure. go check out ebay. they should have.

Open your drivers side door and then there should be a sticker on the car in the door jam. Look at the date at the top and it will tell you the exact date manufactured. Mine is a 95 model but it was built in 3/1994.