Car help!

[speedman]

I can spend $10-15K on hot rodding my 79 SC or spend a little more and get a Subie STI or spend a little more and get a good used viper GTS, I know most on the forum would hot rod the 79, but it is a perfectly stock low miles car. Maybe adding a 3.6 will be the best bet. any thoughts

[Mitch Leland]

Geeez, sounds like a pretty personal decision to me... Something you're going to have figure out on you're own. You're all over the map on this one.

If it's any help I would sit down and list the 3 cars and the pros and cons of each, A/C, comfort, street/track, DIY. available support, local mechanics, resale value, club events, curb appeal, driving satisfaction, etc. List each item 1-3 and see what you get... Might be a place to start...

[jcsjcs]

I was considering a 944, 911 (80's), STi, RX8. Not sure what you mean by "hot rodding" a 79 - but if you are considering exhaust, chip, suspension upgrades, etc. - go for it. Beyond that (turbo, nitrous, ridiculous body work) then you should probably consider the new cars.

As far as value, if you keep the mods within reason, your 911 will be worth the same over the next 10 years (and possibly more) if you don't wreck it or blow the engine. Definitely can't say the same for the more modern cars - which just go down and down and down.

I had a WRX (but not an STi) and it never felt right. It was a lot of fun to drive - but there was never a connection with the road. I have had a 944 and now have a 911 - and if you want to enjoy every minute driving, then they are the way to go. There's something emotional about a Porsche that seems to be missing with Subaru and Vipers. The japanese cars certainly impress as boy toys - but they are not the cars that the rebel in me wants to drive.

(Take a look at the cars being driven by the stars in Californication and Saving Grace and you will know what I mean.)

Best of luck with your decision. In an ideal world, I would have a stable with each of the cars you are considering!

[nineball]

the sc is stock and i am assuming in good condition so i would just leave it be and buy one of the others. the more toys the better.

[speedman]

Thanks to everyone. I am going to put a 3.6 in the car and enjoy it!