A neon won't bend the valves unless it's above 2,000 rpms. Tear the motor down your gonna have to anyways.

 

the whole engine is the same, its the sensors that might be the difference. you are going to have to look real good and make sure all the fittings and sensors will hook up in the right places with the right connectors. the PCM is the same on both these model years. while you are at it change the timing belt, tensioner and water pump.

 

edit *nevermind*

 

Is there any way to tell if there has been damage, bent valves etc. without removing the head ?

Thanks !

 

do a compression test on it.

 

so, put a new timing belt on it & do a quick compression test prior to tearing it down ?