Ok so my sad little story starts off with me getting a 3.8L Convertible Firebird A4 for a first car. Not a bad start but the problem with that was that I wanted alot more power, 200hp stock just wasn't gonna cut it. So I started thinking of getting a supercharger or turbo to bump it up to around 280rwhp. However, the no brainer on this would be it being more expensive than just selling the damned car and getting a Trans Am or Formula. So my question to you is what should I be looking for price to mileage wise. I've already decided on a Trans Am and not a Formula (Formula seems rather boring in my opinion for the exterior stand point). Anything specific you would advise me on when looking for one? Im trying to keep the mileage within 20k of what my Firebird has (44k).Thanks in advance.

 

I think knowing a bit about the prior owner is ultra important. Does he have documentation of repairs, maintenance, etc.. Was the car raced all the time or babied and garage kept? You don't need to put major money into a new purchase so make sure the car isn't burned out already. As strong as these LS1's are they can still be horribly abused. It is much better to pay retail for a babied car than having a potential money pit you bought for cheap. Go to KBB for pricing. Be smart and good luck!! Also be prepared for insurance cost shock.

 

Actually the insurance quote we got is less money than the current convertible I have.

 

You getting a 'vert or t-top?
If tt, make sure they dont leak.
I dont know if you have experienced this yet with your car, but the window motors are known for crapping out, and the headlight gears stripping. Make sure both the windows and headlights work, move them up and down multiple times.

 

60K miles, you'll be lookin about $6000 for an LT1 I say. If you want an LS1 well add another $1500+ onto that for a 98, and the price goes up n up n up with the years . That's for A4s too, not M6. There's too many things I could think of to list what to look for :\ If you buy off the internet, go look at it first. I got one from eBay and all that was "wrong" was the driver window. HAH right. I haven't even finished finding problems. Thank GOD I only got it for $3800!

 

Yea no verts, im done with convertibles. 98-02 for sure, not very keen on the 93-97. Automatic is a must out here too. Between the amount of traffic and stoplights/signs, my left leg would fall off within' 2 days.