I'm normally very decisive on purchases, but deciding on which Vantage to buy has weakened me. Here's the scenario:

I found a great 09 Vantage in Dallas with 5,800 miles for $96K. It's a SportShift with the Sports Pack. I also found an 08 Vantage in CT with 4,500 miles for $85K. It too is a SportShift. Lastly, there are a number of low mileage 07's ranging from $70 - $80K. All are 6MT.

They all look in immaculate condition. The question I have is, for the additional $11-26K I would pay for an 09, is it really worth it? Sure I get the additional 40hp, updated suspension, updated clutch/flywheel, and updated center console. But I could easily add some RSC mods to make up for the delta in hp. Which leaves the other updates. Are those worth the extra $11K?

*scratches my head*

 

That's a tricky one. I'd definitely say that the '09 is worth $11K more than the '08. A sub-10K miles '07 for $70K (possibly even high $60's) is a different proposition though. That gives you a lot of 'mod money' to work with and still leave a decent chunk in your pocket. Personally I would go with either the '07 or the '09.

 

Thanks Stuart. Another question. What are the pros and cons of the SportShift to help differentiate between the 07 and 08?

 

Well, that's different strokes for different folks really. A lot of people prefer a 6 speed, and the AMV8 box is pretty nice for my money. Clutch is the exact same unit for Manual and 6Speed so there's no advantage to either.

The SS unit is not bad on these cars but a lot of people find it a bit slow and lazy compared to some of the Ferrari/Lambo/Porsche offerings. If that is a concern we do have some pretty nice software upgrades available to improve this and other 6speeders have written some nice reviews of this.

Given the cars/prices and the fact that you seem open to both Manual or SS I would say don't factor that into the decision so much. The manual is great, and an RSC upgraded SS is very rewarding as well.

 

Thanks again Stuart.

 

I would agree with Stuart. Go with the 07 or the 09. There are very few differences between the 07 and 08 models but substantial differences with the 09. I was in your shoes about 2 months ago and ended up going with an 09. It was more than I originally wanted to spend but I thought with the upgraded engine and the new dash, it might be easier to sell if I ever had to.(not that i'm planning to but...) I was also stuck on a manual transmission and after looking for what seemed like forever, finally got everything I wanted in the 09. Good luck. You will love whichever one you get.

 

Go with the '09 if you can. The changes they made for that year are really substantial, especially in low and mid-range torque, and you can always add more power later with intake and exhaust mods.

 

This is a great/informative thread as I've tossed around the same thoughts as the OP. Thanks guys!

 

I bought a '08 earlier this year, but the price difference was about 15 grand (add another grand for taxes). I figured adding the factory power pack for 4 still saved me quite a bit of money.

For 10, I would definitely get the '09 (but I bet once you start talking with the sales guy, that price difference will likely increase, as that '08 at 85 can probably had for closer to 80). Also, make sure that you drive the SS before you buy it. I thought it was ok, but sluggish compared to the new gearboxes out there.

Between a 07 and 08, there really is no difference now, since both are out of warranty (or soon to be out). Personally, I wanted a car still in warranty. Although, I had no big problems (broken door lock mechanism and gas cap filler lid stuck), the warranty gave me peace of mind. If you do get the '08 for a good price, I would consider the extended warranty.

 

If you can afford it, '09.

 

I went for a 09 SS. I wanted to have warranty and the extra power. I think the SS is great and is just as good as Lambo's egear. Make sure you drive a 07 and 09 car so you can see the power differences and also try and drive both stick/SS to see what you like better.
Good Luck!!!

 

Wow, you guys have been very helpful! This really helps me to make an informed-decision. Wish me luck!

 

I have an '07 and I will be looking for an '09 beginning of next summer. Hope that helps.

 

I was looking at a Vantage with SS, and the manager of the dealership said he prefers the Manual. FWIW, he does a lot of racing, and is pretty passionate about sports cars.

What I found interesting is that one of the reasons he prefers Manual is because of how the car behaves in reverse with SS. He has to back a lot of cars into different positions in the show room and service bays, and he said he gets pretty nervous when doing so, as it feels like the car is difficult to finesse. He made it sound as though, in reverse, the car wants to either sit, or go....no in between.

 

Interesting. Does anyone that owns an SS feel the same? Also, was he trying to sell you a Manual?