A little background: I own two 92 sport sedans, one auto one 5sp.
My 5sp has 211k miles and has developed rod knock (bearing or wrist pin) and is in ok shape. My auto is in really good shape and a strong engine.
My wife is insisting that I sell one of them.
I would really like to have a 5sp, but the auto's is in overall better shape. Should I swap the tranny's (major pita) or live with the auto til I can swap at later date. Money is very tight and can't send much to do anything.
Also what is a fair price for a turbo legacy with a bad engine?
That is an option, but if I have to keep I would rather keep the one the is better shape and will require less nickel and dime work later down the road. To me this would be the last resort (although the simplist).
Rust is the killer of all things automotive. I fear nothing so much as the tinworm. I would keep the car with no / less rust or accidents / bodywork regardless of the rest of the issues.
I'm not sure I'd swap in a 5MT with that many miles, even if it does shift good. Sell the car and buy a low-miles manual tranny later, and an upgraded clutch and flywheel, all with the stashed money from the sale.
Rust isn't a real big issue around here and the little rust that is present is about the same on both cars. You also make a good point on the high milage of the 5sp.
Matt Monson:
When I decide what I'm going to know I'll post a forsale post, but you will have first dibs.
