I am about to buy a Subaru Brat, either a 78 or 79, but I don't have much of an idea on what to do with it. I plan on sanding down frame and body to try and get rid of any rust first, but I don't know whether or not I should keep the original engine, an EA71, or if I should do an engine and tranny swap. I plan on driving it on the road and in the desert, any suggestions?

See if its a pain to get running on the stock engine. See if you can sort that out before you even start any body work. If you can, drive it some. If you are dying for more power and work and have the time and money go for it. If not, they aren't half bad stock usually. Post a few photos too, we can judge a little but its ultimately up to you.

From a noobs perspective on EA71 Brats I am satisfied with the power. Seems to pull the Brat around nicely. But this is my first Brat and EA71. As mentioned though, depends on what you want. I am content to keep her going with this engine.