Yeah, the engine should be black for Eagles 1981 and up, though some early models in 81 will most likely have blue paint along with the steel valve cover. I know AMC had some carry overs though the model years, as my 87 (#58 for that model year) had an 86 model engine with the plastic valve cover rather than the aluminum one.
And yes, the Eagle oil pan is specific to the Eagles with the sump in the rear to clear the front axle. I believe most other engines have a sump in the front.
I also thought about painting my engine the old AMC blue/teal color they used on the 390s in AMXs.
Not sure if that is the same shade they used in 1980 or not. But I went with just black cause it was easier to find, and doesn't show dirt as much, since mine is a daily driver.