My 1986 Escort L Project

I am redoing a 1986 Escort L. It looks pretty bad but I need some help.
Heres what I plan to do.

* Engine rebuild
* Completely redone interior
* New paint
* Replacing Exterior lights
* Needs new drivers side doors.

And the most challenging of all.

* Convertiblizing it ( New word for Webster?)

But where I need the help is with the engine rebuild. I do not wish to rebuild it with stock components I would like to put in better parts. Keep in mind I do not wish to Rice up the engine. I just want a lil more kick out of this 1.9l engine.

Any sites?

escortracing.com