I honestly prefer DOHC, but whats the big difference?

The JDM DOHC EJ25 with AVCS is bestest.

Better for what? The 98''s apparently had a weak bottom end, and the DOHC head, I don't think was as well designed. and the MAF had a tendency to fail... On the other hand, it had a higher rev limit, and right now, I'm wishing I had a MAF instead of a MAP... it'd make swaping stuff out easier, I think...

it was stated that the SOHC had better engine response as well.

The '98 DOHC (which is the question) did not have a MAF sensor problem. It was only the '99 SOHC engines that blew MAF's.

Correct, the Phase1 blocks were fragile, if you are building up an engine or need to take it apart I would recommend getting a replacement Phase2 block.

BTW, DOHC heads are excellent for high power engines if suitably cammed. Logically cams and head work are more expensive than a SOHC.


edit:
The JDM 2.5L DOHC w/ AVCS used a Phase2 block, so yes I agree it is the "bestest" NA EJ25 engine:)