1997 Cavalier

The 8th digit in the VIN is the engine code. Any similar GM vehicle with an identical 8th VIN digit has the same engine. There are two different engines for your car. Make sure you get the right one!

What will I need 2 do in order to run a regular 2.2 engine in the z24 because I do alot of racing and that motor does not hold up. I had a guy tell me it will be better off 2 get same kind of motor but I want the 2.2. Will it be worth the time and work.

The computer is designed to run one type of engine. Every sensor on the engine, fuel injectors, oxygen sensors in the exhaust, exhaust manifolds/pipes, motor mounts and wiring harness(es) are designed for that engine. And that transmission might share the same computer as the engine too, not only that, but your dash board is different too. You are better off keeping the original engine type if this is your everyday driving car. There are many things you can do to the cylinder head and valves and valve springs to make the car faster. For a start, look into port and polishing the head. The things you can do are almost unimaginable, and in the end it may not even matter if you have the smaller engine.