well first of all the smallport was offered in late model ae92's, im not really sure what you mean by desirable. if you desire a 140 hp 16V 4age then yes, its desirable. ive seen a couple smallport fwd swaps, running high 15's, low low 16's.
I think the AE101 4AGZE is probably the most "desirable" motor out of the A series, plenty of hp and torque, AND the capability of going turbo at anytime.
As for oil leaks.. don't know, my smallport doesn't leak yet (knock on wood) my bigport did leak or sweat a little around the dizzy area though. Also one of the clamps on the oil cooler lines finally gave up one day, so it did "leak" but it was easily fixable.