I believe it is the same engine (block and head wise). I do know some of the engine "components" are different than the sidekick sports.....like the coil packs, for example, the plugs/connectors for them are different. But you'll just be using the block and head anyway, so that won't matter.
You will probably have to use the sport engine mounts. I know that the samurai 1.3 engine mounts will fit the 1.3 geo metro blocks......and I am guessing the sport and esteem is the same way. Same deal with the oil pan.
You will likely have to use the sports intake and exhaust manifolds too.