Buying New Celica - What should I look for?, In hopes to convert to GT-Four eventually Options

[Selly_Kuhman]

I have had a Silv 96' Anniversary Ed. 5-Speed ST Celica for years and sadly lost it last year (RIP), before I was able to do the GT-Four conversion I was planning on. I didn't know 100% if I should do it based on how hard/expensive it would be for someone who doesn't mod/fix cars as a hobby. Although I thought I may ask some things before I look into getting another 6g Celica, since that has been my goal for years now which I never got around to doing.

I am good with my hands, and would love to take on this project, but I have nowhere to work on the car where I live. I have read tons of forum threads and posts, and feel a bit overwhelmed by how complicated this looks for an amateur like myself. Hopefully I'm getting myself worried for nothing...hopefully... I'd be happy if anyone can help me out with any one of these questions!


-Jay


What's the mileage I should be looking for on a new Celica?


What's the price range I should expect to look for? (I live in NY)


If I get an automatic, does that make me a pussy? (I know it does, but is there anyone who has a gt4 auto)


What year's / trim does the GT-Four conversion work with? eg. ST, GT, Convertible? (Is there a combo that it is easiest/cheaper for)


What are the parts needed to convert the hood, bumper and spoiler?


How much do the parts cost individually?


Where would I be able to acquire these parts?


Who would be able to do the conversion?


How much would labor cost around to install them?



Here's a few I found that are semi-close to me. Would be grateful if anyone knew of any others in my area for sale.

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/ve...57640&Log=0

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/ve...68893&Log=0

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/ve...87383&Log=0

[Selly_Kuhman]

Manual it is. Screw the traffic. I was planning on checking out this 97 gt 5-speed tomorrow, but now I'm not sure after looking at the carfax... Post said 132k miles...report says 192. Post says no accidents...report says car was hit on the right side and was totaled. Here's the link if anyone has some input.

http://newjersey.craigslist.org/cto/4635952219.html

Here is another 1997 gt 5-speed which is a bit far, but idc if I have to drive hours to find a decent car. It has a lame green theme which will be instantly changed. 136k milles but I dont see any fog lights. I thought the 97 and up have those stock for the GT model. Also the stick shift looks a bit old. Is this an older year, or an ST? Would help a lot of anyone can confirm this before I spend $40 on a carfax report, or drive out there.

http://baltimore.craigslist.org/cto/4569343493.html



As for the GT-Four in Jersey for 12.5k, I would love to get that, but can only afford around 4k currently.

Also can you do the cosmetic and/or engine swap GT-Four conversion with a convertible GT ? I've never seen it done, so figured it's not compatible.