[trackbird]

I can never seem to decide which way I want to go in my automotive travels. I enjoy my 2002 and it's a great car, quick, handles well, etc. I don't really want to run it at track events as a daily driver. I've been considering a 3rd gen for a long time now and I have some options.

I have a car lined up in VA that I can go pick up. It's an '83 chassis (not the best year), an automatic, a hard top and has no engine in it. However, the price is "right".

I have a local friend who's car I could buy. It's not CMC legal and it's not enough motor for AIX (though I might run ok in AI). Considerably more money, but a nicer car.

I've been looking at the specials on trucks lately (Dodge is way overstocked on inventory and they may be giving them away soon, they have good incentives now) and thinking of "de-modding" my car and trading it in. I'll keep what I can use and sell off the rest of my parts towards the new car (being a 3rd gen, only the rear suspension stuff will swap). The real concern is, can I get rid of enough of the parts from the current car? And, will I be sorry for getting rid of the 2002?

[92Voodoo]

Well some one had to. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) As I'm caged up here in Gotham till the spring I'd like to see one of us have some fun. Hopefully my plan to move us to a place with a garage in NJ will enable me to work on getting out on the track too. I know the reduced rent, taxes, costs won't hurt.

Regarding the depreciation question... What's another 6 months on a 2002? Can't be that dramatic. I'd start getting it back to stock now. I'd think that winter time is ideal for selling parts so that buyers can install them before next year's racing season. Besides I know you love working in the garage in the winter time. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif) Start now so you won't be behind in 2007.

And I still contend that trading your current car in on a new truck is a bad idea. Dealers won't want your car. A third party will likely give you more $. Sell it outright and use the proceeds to buy an already depreciated used truck. Let someone else waste their dollars on the inflated new truck price. You of all people should know (given your sales experience) that the value of a new vehicle is much less than any deal that a dealership will give you. Values drop as soon as you drive it off the lot. I know financing can look good but in the long run, less debt due to lower starting price is better. Especially if you can use the $ from selling the 2002 Camaro to cover a chunk of the costs. Financing $5 to 10k at used car rates is still less than financing $18,000+ at new car rates even from desparate dealers.