trade off?

[josh8966]

Well, a few PA's that werent on the market several months ago when I bought my PA have popped up and are now making me wonder if I should trade up. I have a 92 PA (non ultra) with 47,000 miles on it. The closes thing Ive seen that I like is a 96 PA ultra with 130,000 on it. I think I maybe able to do a trade with the dealer and end up not paying much more then I got my 92 for (got it for $3,000, asking 4000) and the ultra is going for $3500.

My question is is it worth trading for a car with 3 times as many miles but thats younger?

Josh

[HotZ28]

I wish you luck, but I think you will have a hard time getting 4K for a 92, even with low mileage! Trade in value would be 1500 hundred or less! The 96 Ultra is unique, because it comes equipped with the Series II L67 and was the last year of the older body style. It is about 150 lbs lighter than the 97-up models, so therefore, in proper tune, it will out perform & give better gas mileage. With 135K on the clock, I would check all maintenance records and run a Carfax report to see where the car was owned and if it has any reports of accidents. Of course, the Carfax report is not all inclusive, but it is a good start! Once you have reviewed all that, do your own inspection, or better yet, take it to a trusted mechanic for a total inspection.


Next, check all the options on the SPID sticker on the spare tire cover and especially look for a code (Y56) Grand Touring Suspension. The GTS package comes complete with an 3.06 performance axel ratio, NV9 traction control (TC), 16 in aluminum wheels, HD suspension that includes air assist struts, larger sway bars, heavier springs and also NV8 variable assist magnetic speed steering (Magnasteer). The 1996 model Ultra with the GTS package, is a wolf in sheep’s clothing! Good luck!

[josh8966]

So whats the deal with the superchargers going bad on these things? Ive heard stories of them going bad and Id imagine its a pretty expensive item to fix. What are the mechanical cons to the ultra (I know it gets worst mileage, but what kind of additional wear and tear comes with it?)

Id like to try and sell my 92 for what I paid for it, considering Ive invested some time and money on new tires and a few cosmetic parts.

I am tempted, because even with 47000 miles, the 92 is 16 years old and has aged mechanically no matter what you do. It is, however, in great shape.

But so does the ultra. Im going to test drive the ultra tomorrow so Ill report back what I find out about the touring package. I doubt it has it because the rims on it look like stock generic buick rims and are by no means fancy.

Josh

[Jrs3800]

The Ultra SC will have a 2.93 Overall ratio( 3.29 Diff with 37/33 drive and driven gears )

The Lesabre and park with certain packages would have the 3.06 gear ratio( L36 series II NA )

The 1996 Park ave will be the first year with the Series II L67 and last year the SC engine used the 4T60-E.. Also if you plan to mod any there is not a lot of support for the PCM.. I believe DHP is one a couple that may support it..

Usually from what I understand its the coupler in the charger that goes bad, in most cases that can be fixed without setting you pocket on fire..

All I can say is that there is a lot of room to play with the 96 Park... Everything from handling to power.. In good tune the car should be quite quick out of the box..