Help me stop the insanity! Options

[mr2by4]

So I have a new to me 1971 914 that I need to pull and rebuild or replace. I have a longblock on its way to me but I was thinking about going to side shift while the motor is out. Seems reasonable right.
While shopping for a transmission I came across a 2 liter out of a 914-6 that is mostly complete and I can get for a decent price, with a transmission and carbs.
While checking on what it should cost, I found a period correct 2.4 with MFI.
I was on a slippery slope. So I need some advice.
Is the side shifter worth the effort (cost me about $650 in parts to get it done)?
Is a 2 liter 6 that much cooler if I don't do 5 lug conversion etc than a 1911 with a decent cam and a good tune?
If I am going to get stupid, why not do a Subaru motor and just be done with it?
I have had fast cars, and that is not what this is about. I am not rich, but can afford to do any of the conversions I propose.
My intention Is to have fun wrenching on the car and riving it on weekends. I do enjoy Porsches and love the sound of a flat six.
I know hat these are dumb questions to which there are no right answers, but I what I need is therapy and some sound advice. D
o I swap the tranny?
Should I just drive the 1911 and be happy?
Is a 6 $6,000 cooler than a 4?