Is there a specific reason you want the 1.8 rather than the 2.0?
Most economical swap would be to leave it on efi, use an engine loom from an early non PATS escort, and as said its only 7 wires to get it going.
Have a look at the mk4 escort zetec convesion guide on here, that'll tell you all about the wiring side of things
You wont need the cat either