[jc836]

Let me start by saying that the Thermal-will NOT hurt performance. Great mod IMO and I do not plan on taking it off. Goodridge or Russell stainless brake lines-another great decision--do it. As to short shifters-do bushings and then decide - there is some controversy about putting one on and you may do better without it. Why bother with the heatshield gasket-what will it really do on an otherwise unmodded engine.
As for gauges-put what you want in. Oil pressure and temp are nice. an AF gauge might be useful, but not required. The meter is your money, not my best choice.
Appearance items are again a personal thing-I like the plain black leather interior in my ride. I even went and had the armrest in the console lowered and added a fire extinguisher between the rear seats on a custom panel.
Do the real stuff first (brake lines and exhaust) and go from there. BTW: if you need pads for daily-get a set of AEM/Nissin as they are better than stock and work very nice on the track too. You really do not need a "big brake kit" for the street unless you are going for looks.