I'm still struggling. My last thread about making decisions led to some compelling arguments. Predictably, the majority of voters want me to get a Camaro over a used Corvette. Those who privately and publicly posted arguments for the Corvette provided some very compelling arguments. Those who pointed out that the Camaro is why I am here also provided some compelling arguments. Both sides rightfully advised careful financing. I, of course, will be careful regardless of what I buy, but now I am further conflicted. Review these backup plans that I have compiled. This advice will easily apply to anyone coming out of college or high school who really wants some muscle in their garage.
Vote.
Plan A
I get a Camaro 1SS RS in a reasonable period of time. My job pays me enough to buy the car of my dreams before 2012. I put down a payment approximating half the value of the car or more and can afford the payments thereafter. The likelihood of this plan is quickly diminishing.
Plan B
I get a Camaro 1SS without the RS package as a compromise between a job that doesn't pay enough and my dream. If I really want the HIDs, I'll get them later by talking with a dealer and swapping headlights that are bound to be available eventually. If they are difficult to wire, I will find someone capable of wiring them. I get the car before or during 2012 in order to save the same down payment.
Plan C
I get a used Corvette. This car, also being a dream and future goal, can be tuned, modified, and relished for years to come. It may not have the LS3 or equivalent power, but it will be lighter and will be the fastest car I've ever owned. Future plans for this car would include a motor swap instead of a new car in a few years.
Plan D
I get a Camaro 1LT RS in late 2010 or early 2011. Like the Corvette, the goal is a motor swap in a couple of years. I purchase the GMPP grille, conceal or remove and RS badging, creating a V6-looking Camaro with a V8 inside. This becomes my scary track monster as I get a new car in a few years.
Plan E
I get a Camaro 2LT RS in 2011 and trade for a Camaro SS in a couple of years. I will want a V8, but I will have blown any motor swap money on modifications to make me happy about other aspects of the car, including rims and a sound system. Those components will fit on the SS when I finally get it, but the wait will be long.
Plan F
I get a Cobalt SS. If I get a supercharged model, I will get the highest stage available to crush rival Focus and Mustang drivers and keep up with Camaros. If I get the turbocharged version, I will tune until I can beat a Camaro SS, but I will still want a RWD V8, no matter how nice my American compact is.
Plan G
GM fails before I can buy a Camaro to my specifications. I cry a lot in this plan, but I eventually decide to get something unique. I would probably consider a refurbished DeLorean with a SBC motor, if I can find one. Other alternatives all include getting classic cars as daily drivers or cars that I can pimp.
Plan H
My current car dies. I purchase a used fourth generation Camaro SS with as few miles as possible. While I enjoy this ride, I wish I had a new Camaro, and am thus frustrated with the small imperfections of my used car which are still better than the substantial imperfections of my current car.
Plan I
My current car dies. I purchase something at a police auction, resulting in one of two conclusions. The first conclusion is that I get an acceptable car for an even cheaper price, but it serves to hold me over until I get a Camaro. If this car is a police car, I modify it and beat some people at the track every once in a while. The second conclusion is that I accidently purchase a car that used to belong to a member of the mob, mafia, or gang in the area. I get shot, blown up, or shanked, resulting in death. Camaro5 mysteriously stops receiving posts from The_Blur, only explained by local obituaries in the area of my residence.
Plan J
My current car dies. I am forced to purchase another beater until I can afford a Camaro. The sixth generation comes out, but it is not the car I loved in 2006 and made my goal in 2008. Eventually, I get a fifth generation Camaro used or a new sixth generation Camaro.