Looking to get a GTO, what's the better idea - getting a low mile pristine 04 or an 06 with more mileage? Obviously the 6.0L is more powerful but is it worth the price?

>>28501212 (OP)
>what's the better idea
An ls3 c6

>>28501212 (OP)
Whichever one comes with the T56.

>>28501212 (OP)
i have a 2006, same color as picrel

the rundown is basically this
> all have:
T56 manual or 4L60 auto
factory LSD
a fairly usable backseat
a pretty comfy interior by 2003 standards
IRS
>2004:
5.7 L V8 LS1
goofy rear bumper
single exit exhaust
no hood scoops
more unique color options
>2005:
6.0L V8 LS2
corvette brake calipers
revised driveshaft
hood scoops
proper dual exhaust and revised rear bumper
> 2006:
everything from 2005, plus
clear tailights
door unlock switch

now for the bad
the paint on this car is as thin as colorado air. if you look at it funny it will get a rock chip.
anything with the powertrain or drivetrain is easily replaceable. go find a wrecked C6 and chances are it will bolt up. however, anything outside of the powertrain or drivetrain will cost you big big big money to replace, especially body panels
it has IRS, but it also handles like a boat. the steering is very loose, and there is a lot of body roll. the high COG due to the fuel tank placement partially causes this. it is a straight line cruiser, not a track attack toy.
the rear suspension is as soft as baby shit and often fails within first 50k miles. this is a known issue you can research on the forums
>cont

>>28501498
LMAO @ THAT WHEEL GAP

>>28501498
if you want to stagger the wheel widths, 265s will not fit cleanly in the rear without adjusting the ride height.
the leather seats were brittle from the factory, and even more so now that its 20 years old
the trunk uses a stupid release mechanism, that you have to be standing next to in order to use. there is no button outside the car so you have to use car keys
2004s have a throttle by cable system which means your traction control is super complicated. i believe 2005s went to a throttle by wire system which makes TCS electronic

i bought this car because i really wanted a G8 but wanted a manual. it is worse than the G8 in almost every manner except raw speed. the chassis dates to the early 90s Opels and it shows, but it’s a much better car than its main competitor (the New Edge and S197 Mustang GTs). over the 6 years ive owned it ive developed a love hate relationship with it. i love it, and i love having something unique, but im terrified of the day that something breaks because it could probably bankrupt me or total the car. it’s a fun, comfy cruiser that blends in but can act out when you step on the gas. in the mid/high 20k range, a used S550 is probably a better option (I also have a 2023 GT, it mogs the GTO in every metric)

i never considered a 2004. i would rather have a 2002 Trans Am WS6. at least then, you have the domestic parts network unlike the 2004 GTO.