Pods add flotation value, Tabs (any tabs) do not.
If you have the hull, and the old engine ( or even without the old engine) you can simulate how the stern will sit. It won't be exact, but at least you will have some idea.
5-gallon buckets will hold approximately 42 lbs of water each. 8x8x16 concrete blocks weigh 28 lbs. A combination of these two devices, placed as far back as you can, will give you something to check out.
Adding flotation to tabs might help. How much is detailed in a post above.
You will have to account for the added weight of the pods, too.
Have you been able to identify any similar hulls with pods on the internet? Perhaps an owner will help with his opinion.
One of the guys in my local bass club has a heavy fiberglass "Bullet" brand boat. Big engine; big guy. His stern hangs so close to the water that I wouldn't want to go fishing in that craft.
IMHO, if your only issue is getting onto plane, tabs will do the job. If you have an extra-heavy engine that will be added, and experimenting with weights tells you that the stern will be sinking way down, then pods become a better choice.