Guys,

I'm in a pickle. I'm trying to decide if I should buy a new Camaro or just upgrade the one I already have. I currently own a '98 red Z28 with about 88k miles on it, and I really like it. However, there are some things I want to do to it, mostly cosmetic, to make it my 'dream Camaro'.

But now the new Camaro is out, and boy is it bada$$! Who doesn't want one of those? The thing is, I don't feel like picking up a car payment since there is nothing wrong with my Camaro and it's already paid for. The upgrades I'd like to get done to it are:

- getting the Suncoast Creations SS style ram air hood
- Diablo Deltaforce 18" rims
- an SLP Loudmouth exhaust
- the Xenon front bumper kit, and then the Venice side skirts and rear bumper

Just getting all of those parts is roughly about $3700. That doesn't include the body work and paint, etc. Eventually, sometime down the road, I'd like to get a manual transmission installed and have the interior redone. I'm sure those are expensive as well.

But I'm torn between doing all of this work to my current Camaro, or if I should just sell it and spend the money towards a new one. Any suggestions on what would be a better deal? Also, if anyone has any idea how much it actually costs to change the transmission from auto to manual, and the cost of getting the interior redone (beige leather and carpet), I'm all ears. Thanks!

 

I'm sure everyone will have different opinions, so just sharing my humble one.

I would wait and save and get the new Camaro. Maybe not the first year..maybe next year.

You could probably get $4500 for your used car. Add in the $3700 you're already willing to spend to modify your current ride. Just for kicks, let's say you spend another $2k for the 6-speed and interior, you're looking at $10k right there that you could put towards the new car.

So, do you want to sink in that money into a car with 88k miles on it? I don't know what performance mods you have...but what would it take to get your current ride to 400hp?

One thing I learned is that modifications often cost more then you think...but that's the fun in making a car truly custom to your take.

For me, I don't have the funds to get the new car, but I wasn't planning to put any more dollars into my 96 z28 either. I'm fine with it, and if I ever had the funds...I would upgrade to the Camaro or a used Vette.

So that's my opinion..do what you want, but if your planning that much money to put into your old car...I'd apply to the new ride. And then modify the hell out of that one!!