If it were my car, I'd rebuild what I have because '96 SS are not common. And keeping the car numbers matching would be important to me.

Otherwise, for a basic Z28 or sixxer Camaro I'd get a reman'd engine. They are rebuilt with new everything and come with a warranty

 

At the very least, I would keep the block in case you changed your mind. If you turn it in for a core, it will be lost for good.

 

vette motor should be 4 bolt main. yah just keep the old block maybe take heads off and make sure theres no water damage. also could send heads in to be done when you can afford them, have a set of le2 heads waiting.