What is the average cost to replace a 2001 chevy malibu engine?

[Broken like an Angel]

My boyfriends 2001 malibu leaks coolant and his car overheats very easily. He took it to the dealership to be checked out and they said the head gaskets would need to br replaced. The said it would cost him between $1200 and $1600 to fix. Would he be better off buying a whole new engine and have it installed or would it cost less to have the head gaskets replaced? I told him to go somewhere else to get a second opinion which he's going to do, but he's going back to school in 2 weeks and needs his car. Any insight would be very appreciated.

 

[wheelie]

head gasket is far cheaper than an engine just shop around for a better price 1200is kinda high