1997-1998 Changes Options

[joyworks]

I am about to buy my first 6G Celica Convertible, after recently selling my Paseo Convertible (it was a good car, just a bit crude). I am looking to spend about $8,000, and for that price I can get a 1997 (Limited Edition) with about 68K miles or a 1998 with about 100K miles, or a 1999 with about 117K miles. I am tempted to go with the '97 and have the lower mileage. But, I noticed that they made some changes between '97 and '98, including upgrading to an 8 speaker sound system, a different steering wheel, and they changed the engine power curve, lowering the HP from 135 to 130, but increasing Torque a bit and to a lower RPM. My question is, do these changes provide any noticeable improvements to the '98s and '99s? I do love a good sound system, and if the newer models feel peppier, I would be tempted to go with one of those, but if the improvements are marginal, than I would probably stick with the '97. Your thoughts on this would be much appreciated! I also read on ConsumerGuide Automotive that the convertible tops on the '95-'97 models tend to wear near the rear window more, and that the defroster terminals break more easily. Is there any truth to this? Thanks again!!