They're not quick. They're genuinely fast. (quick being something I'd consider a stock C5 vette)
PITA scale isn't too bad assuming a few things. There is someone that'll ship you a template/jig for a deposit to weld in mounts.
garage to stash the project in.
no need to finish it right now.
swapping a motor is no big deal in the first place
common sense approach to replace all seals/wear items you can get to
acceptable welding skills.
basic metal working tools.
cherry picker/assortment of jacks/stands.
obligatory hand tool assortment.
an extra 50% time/cash reserve for unexpected shenanigans.
Ability to finish a project.
I'm honestly a big fan of the 5SFE in an AW11 though. (Sure you're getting sick of me being one of like two inputs on it
) Won't be the fastest thing on wheels but a stock 5SFE would take the AW11 chassis up into genuine sportcar territory. (instead of "nimble surefooted grip demon" you'd get the prior + balls
) It'd be disposable to boot. You could probably pick up an entire driveline from someone doing a 3s swap for less than the cost of the tools required to install it. (in a perfect world, where things made sense on craigslist - lol)
If I could get the ass end of a mk2 for $500, 5SFE, all day long. Probably at $1300 too. I'd compression/leakdown either regardless. Beyond that, the 3S starts looking more attractive.
Big personal question - What's your budget / goals for the car?