98 ss2 and 98 ss3 difference? Options

[celica_maori]

Whats are the differences with a 98 SS2 and a 98 SS3 (both stock)???

[neophile]

Hi,

hmmm, the FTO vs the SSIII, that's quite a choice

As you may know, there's 3 main models of FTO, the GPX, GR and GS.

Compared with the SSIII, the GS really doesn't make the grade - with a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC), 1.8 litre engine putting out around 120hp and only basic features inside and out.

Now, the GR and GPX however are a different story. Both have a V6 24 valve engine, with the GR putting out around 170HP (about the same as an SSII - though the FTO is 50Kg lighter) and the GPX putting out about 200HP (about the same as the SSIII - although the FTO is 40Kg lighter). The GPX has MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) much like VVTi in the SSIII BEAMS. The GPX also has more features inside the car. For good info on the FTO, check out this site.

I guess with similar specs and similar prices the SSIII vs FTO choice comes down to: firstly looks - which do you think looks better, secondly engine type- do you want a Straight 4 or a V6, and finally which one is 'more you'.

For me personally it'd be the SSIII (if I couldn't get a GTFour) because I like the shape of the celica more and I'm a toyota guy, having either owned or regularly driven various corollas (4age's), trueno (4age 20v), aristo (2jz-gte) and numerous toyota family sedans (crown, cressidas etc)

Importing direct via a dealer is a pretty good option - you can usually specify the specs and colour and kms etc, which is cool. Some will even send digital photos to you via email along with detailed info.

Either way you buy I would definately recommend getting one of those 2 year warrantee things from the dealer. I have with my last 2 cars, and for less than a grand, they will fix anything that goes wrong with the car (except basic wear and tear like types, belts, filters etc) for 2 years - as long as you get a wof and service every 6 months and send them a form confirming that.

Have fun, either way you go (mitzi or toyota) you'll end up with a great car - of course if you go with the 6gc, you get to hang out here