I have a 98 camry with a bad engine and am thinking about replacing it with the good one i have in a 96 camry. I know they are the same engine model 5SFE but am wandering if they are still the same?

 

Suggest you look closely at both engines for the changes.

The 98 had various improvements to the ign, fuel, EGR systems, plus internal changes. Make sure all improved 98 components will bolt up the the older engine.

Also check for both a cam and crank sensor on the new engine, the older engine may just have one sensor.