I've been looking hard for the right car, and am coming to the conclusion that waiting for the perfect combination of options is going to take a while. Instead its probably better to overlook small things and focus on the big picture. In that spirit, I'm interested to hear how hard (and approximate cost) it is to change these things:

1) Upgrade standard slim shifter to the thicker one.
2) Replace double circle exhaust tips with the ovals.
3) Swap white cluster for black.

 

All minor

 

Minor?

Where it the category that is two notches UNDER minor?!

If you find the car with ALL the other things right, (price, interior, exterior colors, condition, miles,) except these, you are very lucky,

 

1) Upgrade standard slim shifter to the thicker one. - don't know, I have a Tip
2) Replace double circle exhaust tips with the ovals. around $300, easy install
3) Swap white cluster for black. - the plates cost around $200-300; but the cluster need to be removed and have a speedometer shop to change it, $200 should do.

 

Many dealers ordered the x53 exhaust tips with he X50 turbo..plus the turbo S may have them standard...so people equate the quad tips with X50. They are desirable. You might be able to sell the quads for $200 plus an exchange. Potentially a net money maker!

And who wants that stock exhaust anyway!

 

Even if it costs you $1K total, you're entitled to a reach-around. All of that is DIY capable as well, if you're feeling confident.

 

I wouldn't touch the cluster if I were you. You should have the pro do it.

 

+1

a new cluster ain't cheap if you break it, and all those needles you have to work around are delicate.

 

i really like the white cluster but my car did not have them so i compromised by buying the silver trim rings, some people dont like them but it looks a heck of a lot better than stock imo

i wouldnt pass on a great car for the options you mentioned above

 

Face plates are easy to swap - not something you should worry about.

 

I changed my gauge faces myself---very easy to do...just snap a picture of the needle locations before removing and use the picture as a guide when re-attaching.