Originally Posted by
Mkazm83
You neglected to mention the additional cost of owning a SH. How does $1k for a clutch replacement sound? The color matched bottom molding is weak anyway. OEM kit > SH moldings. All things being equal, the Base would win a straightline competition. The OP mentioned that he wanted to "tune" (whatever that means) the car. Depending on how far he wants to take it, the Base model is more suited for this. There are some nice touches on the SH, like the courtesy lights, and the rear deck lacking the third brake light. Although I'm sure there are some that will disagree, I think the Base wheels are more aesthetically pleasing, not to mention lighter. Back to your handling comparison, Base with LSD > SH.
Forgot to mention that if you do get the Base, make sure you get the 5spd as the SS trans is shit.
Additional cost of ownership?
For me it is negligible cause I do all my own work.
But since the clutch will have to be replaced only once or twice during the life if the car, I don't see how a clutch job that is $100-200 more than the base model clutch job is that big of a deal. :dunno:
Personally, I don't like the OEM kit and I'd rather have the SH side moldings. That way I don't have to spend MORE money on something I could have got when I bought the car. Not to mention most base owners DON'T have the kit.
Why do you think a base model would win in a straight line? And please don't tell me the weight difference, because it is negligible.
Where are the specs on your wheel comparison? Lighter by how much?
And finally, most Lude owners don't have the LSD as it wasn't offered here in the states. So your argument here is pointless...