I'm inclined to replace the motor if certain condition exist. Bear in mind that after the repair, the value of the car most likely will barely cover its cost mainly due to its age and kilometers. You did say that it was in 'cherry' condition - that caught my attention.

Inspect the car. If the motor was the only damage, it could be worth the repair. Put in a re-manufactured motor if:

1. The body is in good condition and relatively corrosion free.

2. Chassis wear items (shocks, CV joints, Struts, Brakes, Steering Gear, etc.) are in acceptable condition or repairable at reasonable cost. (If she let the engine go dry, I suspect she did not pay any attention to other items as well.) Oh yes, repair those coolant leaks.

3. All electrical gear and wiring harness is in good condition.

4. You would be happy to keep it and drive it long enough to get your money's worth out of it.

One question remains: The trans-axle. How many kilometers are left it it? Should you replace it as well while the engine is out of the car? The alternative is to drive it until the trans-axle fails. If it fails too early, you will need to replace it to recoup the investment.

Repair it, it is worth to do it, don't let your car down.

Well, turns out the motor wasn't fried, only the rad needed to repaired. But 5 months later, metal on metal tapping but still running. Daughter's licensed mechanic friend said the cost of repair wasn't worth it. So sold "as is" for C$3K to a used car dealer, who will repair. (Or sell to an unsuspecting buyer!)

Replaced with a '15 Mercedes C 300 FourMatic Sport. Will trade or sell after the extended warranty expires!