I am definitely impressed with having the idea and actually going through with the swap. Most ask and never do anything about it. But, I think I would have dropped the subframe before hammering on it. JMHO though obviously. You keep, keeping on. I'm definitely interested to hear in the results after you're done.
Edit: Maybe instead of dropping the subframe, the motor mounts could be loosened and the engine raised? Would that provide necessary installation room?