(G) Engines for tempra estate

Hi to you all

I have a tempra estate 1.9 turbo diesel which is fine and it has proved to be a very reliable and trustworthy car over the last three years or so (cost me £100 too). I am wondering what other engines might fit into it to give it a bit more go. Keen to stay with a diesel. Would the 2.4 diesel (5 cylinder I think) fit without many modifications? What about the JTD engines - I fancy one of the alfa versions.

Has anybody got any ideas of what might go in or experience of fitting an alternative?

Also has anybody fitted lowering springs? Are they an improvement or do they just make the ride very hard with little improvement overall?

Your thought would be much appreciated.

The TD engine is simple and no trouble, surely??????

I replaced my soggy shocks with new stock Marellis which are stiffened for the diesel but the handling still isn't wonderful.

However non of this answers your questions.............