I used to live not far from GM Dad..
The last time I checked in Ontario, vehicles over 19 years are exempt from emissions checks. And there was a provision for hot rods to allow engine swaps to be done and be exempt.
With gas running 30% higher in Canada than the US, it makes good sense to swap in a motor that will reduce your fuel consumption. Ontario gas is running $1.10/liter (about $4.17/US Gallon). A 30 to 40% drop in fuel consumption will pay for its self,how long depends on the distance driven. After that its money in the bank.
I'd keep the original parts to restore it too.
