The 97 model year has possibilities of both style radiators. 98 would have the engine oil cooler in front of the condenser and still have the trans oil cooler in the radiator.
Dexcool was redesigned in 2000 i believe and does not get sludgy like it used to (it went from a red color to orange). This would be the best choice for aluminum like Tim said. Also, the radiator in my opinion is easy to change as long as you have a metric wrench set, socket set, and a couple different types of pliers.