I'm talking more about the engine block itself.

Yours is a 93, shouldn't there be a difference between that and the 98 model?

I've been looking on Carsales and other 98 ludes (Si) and they seem to have the same engine, i think it's the vti-r models that are different e.g spark plug lead cover and vtec engines

Although they do look in better condition than that one, looks like the battery brace is cracked off or missing and the top radiator hose looks like it's about to blow any second (judging by the swelled up look in photo)