There is no API or implementation implied by the SSL 3 spec. In fact, the Netscape implementation is done with mutliple small tables. The handshake hashes are done with the plaintext input of the handshake data. A straightforward implementation is possible without any layering violations. The final SSL 3.0 protocol was influenced by its implementation.
Much sharing is possible betweent the messages dealt with by the client and server.
Many messages contain common sub-records. SHA is recommended. SSL 3.0 does not use MD2 or MD4. Netscape Communications They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.