Need some modern muscle car advice - $15000 to spend

[twobone]

I'm not an American muscle car guy....but I think it's time I jump in

I plan to spend about $15000 on a used mustang or corvette.

Being honest with myself, most of my driving is during the summer and around the city...mostly short rides. Having a young busy family has that effect.

For pure drama, I'm inclined to think corvette C4 or C5 convertible.

My logical brain says....mustang GT convertible so the family and dog can come too

Handling and agility are priorities.....right after stupid grins from acceleration blasts...

My next steps are some test drives...but it's always good to get some advice to steer me in the right direction.

Thanks

[Formulareed]

I was in the same market last year. I drove a bunch of c4s, mustang svt and a saleen as well as a few z28 4th gen Camaros.

I liked the c4 best, but the 4th gen camaro was close and a little more practical. The z28 with the ls and 6 speed is a pretty wicked ride.

15k can get a really nice c4. That being said, finding a c4 that's not trashed can be hard. Most of the c4s that I saw were pretty beat. Look for one with a 6 speed. The 4+3 is ok, and not as bad as some make it out to be, but the 6 is the way to go. If you can, drive one with the z51 package. It's a bit harsher ride, but makes the car feel much more like a proper sports car.

[Arizona_928]

Comparing my fathers C4 to my 928. I almost feel bad for him...
Would go with C5 "the start of the LS are what you are looking for in terms of mod and easy bolt on HP...", or classic iron. Either build a nice engine, or go with the cheap LS3 crate and cam swap "easy 400+ hp"... Won't handle the twisty's, but will run like a raped ape...

[WPOZZZ]

It's not American muscle, but what about an E39 M5? 4 dr, 6 speed, 400hp.

[onewhippedpuppy]

The C5 is light years ahead of the C4, and you should be able to find one for $15k. I would vote C5 or find an older Mustang Cobra, the 1999-2004 have IRS and a really nice hand-built DOHC V8. You also might be able to find an older Roush 427R for that price, they are pretty fantastic cars.

Another option that you didn't mention would be the GTO. Yes the styling is a little bland but you get a 6.0L 400 HP V8, 6-speed manual, nicer interior than any other muscle car option, and full independent suspension. It's more practical than the Corvette and nicer inside with better handling than a Mustang or Camaro/Firebird.

If you are thinking Camaro (I wouldn't), don't forget the Firebird. Particularly in WS6 form they are fast and have a good look, but the build quality is crap.

[ckelly78z]

I have never owned, or really even wanted to own a Corvette, just too impracticle for my lifestyle. I did just pick up a triple black 2004 Mustang GT convertible for my DD. I really love the sounds that the 4.6 makes and get that stupid grin from acceleration blasts. For living out in the countryside in the flatlands, this car handles just fine, sits a little higher than a Corvette (no clearance issues), has the rear seat, and big trunk, and is a blast with the top down.

If my budget were $15,000, I would have bought the same car in a 2005-2010 version GT.

[HardDrive]

Personally I would skip the convertible. The fantasy of having the top down is not a fun as reality in my humble opinion.

03-04 Mustang Cobra. You can find C4 corvettes for a lot less than $15k. Beware the 4+3 stick in C4 vettes. You don't want it.

[berettafan]

C4 blech. Drove one years ago. I honestly don't see how they ever sold those things to people.

i'd be looking mustang as mentioned.

agree with ragtops being overrated PARTICULARLY for a performance car. sure Porsche can build a boxster tight but ford and gm....uh no.

[twobone]

Seems like an 05' GT convertible will give me the best mix of retro body style and strong V8

[stealthn]

$15k CDN doesn't get you much these days, that said the sports cars are a bit better if tgey are not driven in the winter. Good luck

[Todge]

If you want to bump your ceiling a bit, I just put my GTO up for sale. Holden Monaro conversion, super low miles, 6spd LS2...

If not, I vote for the C5
Todge

[VincentVega]

Originally Posted by stealthn

$15k CDN doesn't get you much these days, that said the sports cars are a bit better if tgey are not driven in the winter. Good luck

Quick CL check shows tons of sub 15k rustangs, I didnt realize things were that different up north.

Good luck, you really need to drive a few they are completely different cars.

[Cajundaddy]

C5 Vette if you can find a good one under $15k. This is a pretty awesome car for the dough with good looks and suspension to compliment the LS lump. Except for the ZR-1 a C4 is pretty underwhelming.

[twobone]

Just to clarify, I said $15K....I meant in USD....up here in Canada, that translated into about $20K CDN.

[Cajundaddy]

1991 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 For Sale - CarGurus

http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-Chevrolet-Corvette-d1#listing=130373287

[bbturbo]

I would look into: older "supernatural" Callaway Corvette, Firehawk Trans Am, 1997 SS anniversary camaro, Saleen s281 mustang, Roush Stage 3 mustang.

[scottmandue]

Originally Posted by HardDrive

Personally I would skip the convertible. The fantasy of having the top down is not a fun as reality in my humble opinion.

I would have to agree... owning a Miata cured me of the convertible itch.
However I understand it is a very personal preference.

I have a long love affair with the Vette going back to the late 60's but never owned one (still would love to).

However you mention a dog and kids... a lot of cool cars out there with a back seat.

Just my two cents.

[aschen]

my dad bought a pristine 07 mustang gt convertible with 40k miles for around 11-12k I think.


I was prepared to dislike the car but actually find it quite charming to drive when you consider the price point.

15k usd will get you into a c5 z06 if you can forgo the convertible requirement. You will get a car that is Carrera S fast in terms of handling and power for the price of a versa.

[aigel]

Never got that ZR1 attraction.

NO way I'd buy a GTO - test drove it. School bus shifter, ratty.

In the line up mentioned, my vote is also C5.

G

[creaturecat]

golden necklace required with the 'Vette.
and. you gotta drive it like a mad man.