total converstion with Star wolf 3 engine

[Goblin Wizard]

Yes. SW is really easy to mod(compared to other games).
1. gundam or macross - sounds like anime/manga stuff. I'm not anime fan, sorry.
2. Actual engine doesn't support bump maps, displacement maps, normal maps etc so model look rather flat. Screens showed for SW3:AoV look like new engine will posses these options.
3. I don't know how to export models from Maya. I use 3ds max with IMD plugin (if you know how to compile a plugin I can give the source). Eventually, you can use IMDEditor. It supports OBJ + MTL file format. The problem is that IMDEditor doesn't export/import collision spheres, weapon hardpoints, lights, engine fires, etc. Only pure model with texture.
4. Models are easier part. You will have to find someone who can write a code in LUA for all quests.