2.3 engines are really economical so would suit you well mate.
as said in a previous thread you are a ford man:D
dont know why he would of put a type 9 gear box on as the
MT75 would fit no problems as they came with a MTX75 gearbox
unless he wanted the long ratio of the type 9 for cruising.
that rust section would be a easy fix to sort out from inside
and outside of the car.