I own a 1996 850 Platinum Edition with 75K original miles. Vehicle overheated due to broken thermostat and engine failed. Engine turns over but but just barely fires.
Dealer mechanics opinion is that head gasket is blown perhaps some damage to piston sleeves (?). His recommendation was a new engine. I understand only 1500 of these cars were imported the US. Are there engines available for this model? Would replacement be a cost effective solution?

 

They are the same engines as other 850 turbo motors.

You can also pull the head and see what the pistons and sleeves look like.

I had one today that the cylinder sleeves are trashed on.

That motor in the car at work is more rare than the motor you have.