I need to replace the engine. It is an automatic transmission. Do I need same year engine? or can I get a newer year engine and even from a manual transmission??

The Why? is my question. Please just answer or tell me you don't know. I love this little car and I have not seen any other vehicle that compares in looks, reliability and just pleasure to own.

The year of the engine is not a concern! If you get it from a standard trans/manual, the pilot bearing needs to be changed out. Other than that everything should work the same