I've owned MANY Mustangs (1986 GT, 1989 LX 5.0, 1991 LX 5.0, 1988 GT Convertible, 1998 GT, 2000 GT) and one Firebird, a 1994 Formula 6-speed (which turned out to be a complete lemon). I've had some other hi-po cars, like a 1986 Monte SS and a 1995 300ZX Twin Turbo.

I'm finally in a position to plunk down about $12-13 grand cash to outright own an LS1 F-Body. I was burned by my 1994 Formula (in one year, it needed: a new driveshaft, steering assembly, 6-speed tranny, rear main seal, rear differential, three failed radios, fraying interior leather and a new a/c compressor)... But am ready to try again.

I've found one Formula I'm looking at, a 1998 white with black leather interior and automatic. I don't mind an automatic at this point, since the last car I owned that wasn't a stick was my 1986 Monte Carlo. I drove my girlfriend's 1998 Corolla automatic last month and was shocked at how nice it was to not have to shift in traffic. This Formula has 54K miles and needs a detailing but looks pretty solid. No keyless, which is a drag. Does have t-tops and monsoon audio, tho. Were all monsoons equal in 1988?

Anyway, my ideal would be a loaded black on black T/A convertible WS6, but I suspect that'll be a little over my $13000-ish range. The lot I checked had a $14K Z28 convert, but with cloth interior and a rather ugly white top. It also had a crack in the front fascia.

So... What do you guys think? Should I hunt down a WS6 or give it up for the price I'm hoping for? Know of any dealers in California with a decent deal on a Formula or T/A? The options I'm hoping for: Leather, t-tops, monsoon & keyless entry. Was the 1LE an option in 1998? Other perf options?

Thanks!

bill

 

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10 months ago I would of said buy a new one with a large down payment but that is no longer an option. I would hold out for what you really want. No point settling or you will feel you wasted your money. Also, if a cars interior/exterior looks like it was not maintained, chances are pretty good that someone didn't take all that good of care of the rest of the car either and you could be in for major headaches. I would hold out for a 1998 TA. They are abundant vehicles. Good luck.