[LJM]

Been thinking about buying a used 2006 GTO LS2 or BMW M3. I really like BMW's but the GTO will be different. Any members own a GTO LS2 with any advice ?


I might go look at this GTO this weekend

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/e...STRK:MEWA:IT&viewitem=&item=280227513179&rd=1

 

[socalGTOpilot]

I have a 2004 (LS1) GTO. Regardless of which year you get you will love it! Having driven the improved 05-06 models (bigger engine, bigger brakes and different styling), I can say that I wish I had the cash for one a year ago when I got my 04. Many people do not like the stock shifter, it is said to be too notchy, but there are several shifters available. The gearing is the same as the 05 vette z06. I dont know how familiar you are with the GTO's, but some things to remember are:
-The GTO is Australian made by Holden, a GM company. Its right drive aussie version is the Monaro, check out the HSV coupe GTO (jawdrop)
-Dont let anyone say "this one is fully loaded", all GTO's are identically equipped except for trans. and ext./int. colors.
-While being a very stable car with traction control, it's still got 400hp, get to know its limits before playing around too much.
-Some whine from the rear end at ~50mph is normal, a fluid change can usually eliminate or quiet it if excessive.
-While backing, the rear spoiler really screws with your view out the back window, you will develop an intuition of the rear bumpers location, and use the mirrors a lot.
-Don't run any less than 91 octane fuel, you will easily tell the difference, even at part throttle.
-There is a HUGE aftermarket for them, thanks in part to the f-bod's and vettes. Everything from twin turbos to add-on instrumentation is available.
-Most GTO's have tires sized 245/45/17 and are BF Goodrich G-force KDWS, they are a decent tire, but many others are much better in wet and dry cornering grip.
-Check out www.LS1GTO.com, there is a ton of information there and a user community that is welcoming and insanely knowledgable (kinda like here :thumbsup
Hope that helps some!

 

[1BLACKHARLEY]

heres what i know, i hate the way they look, just can't stand it, but if i had the $, i'd buy one. 400 h.p. 6 speed....around here, they have been adopted by the exotica crowd. there are dounut run groups around here, these guys run ferrari's, gt 40's, maserati's, etc...big $ stuff, and these groups run with gto's. i have a gt mustang, one of the greatest cars i've ever owned, but i don't consider it exotica.

for a car that's basically built as a h.p. commuter to be accepted by the guys driving halloways, and f40's, that's saying something. to see them flying down the freeway dicing with high end exotica, is quite impressive....

i have yet to talk to anybody who owned or driven one, that wasn't impressed with how refined it is. i've heard most remark that you need to upgrade tires, then just beat the hell out of it. if i could have gotten a decent deal on one, it would be parked next to the g.t.

 

[JC70SS]

Leo say I have a friend selling that exact color 06 with 5000 mi on the car. Head/cam package from AS&M. Heads are AFR and it dynoes 490 to the wheels. Car is in Milwaukee, but I am sure he would get it to you. Car is A1 mint.

 

[Les Saville]

Leo, the best advice I could give you on the 06 GTO is buy it from me! I only have 5.7K miles on it and it has the sports appearance package with the 6 speed. Email me if your interested.:thumbsup:

 

[davis95]

I've been thinking about buying one since they came out myself. If the right one comes along at the right price I may also end up with one.

 

[LJM]

Jody, thanks alot for the info and the link to that website. I've spent a few hours on there forums reading up.

Bill and Joe thanks for the info also.

Les, i was checking this 06 out for sale with SAP on that GTO website. After you posted that you were selling your GTO i went back and looked and guess what it's your car !!!

I have an appointment to look at one sunday about 30 miles from my house but your car interests me alot.

 

[bri2203]

-Dont let anyone say "this one is fully loaded", all GTO's are identically equipped except for trans. and ext./int. colors.
QUOTE]

You could get 18 inch wheels too.
I am not sure but I think some could be ordered with the sport appearance package that is so hard to get ahold of.

 

[socalGTOpilot]

You could get 18 inch wheels too.
I am not sure but I think some could be ordered with the sport appearance package that is so hard to get ahold of.

True, I forgot about that. The SAP package was a dealer installed thing, thats why I didnt mention it, but yes those parts are getting hella expensive. Someone is doing a repro. of the grill inserts though.:hurray: