you can pick up a PFC without hand controller for under $700 if u shop around, and it has a better resale value than any of the other options when ur finished with it.
ur comparing apples and oranges.. the r32 is older and cheaper. s14/15 newer and more expensive.
s14 is probably the best bang for buck, can pick one up for only a couple grand more than a 32.
i havent heard of this being done before.. you will probably have some trouble with compliance if its not running.
maybe a better option would be to find one with the engine on its way out but not totally blown yet?
i was with them when i was under 21.. theyre not too bad but i would never pay for full comp with them. however, theyre pretty much your only choice if you have an import.
if you drive an ADM car aami is the way to go