I'd definitely prefer the 5 speed too. As for the transmission getting uprated; I'm trying to find a replacement for the Vectra for as little as possible, as I still want to build my Ausmosis HQ. With Mrs. Mak due before me, it is likely that we will get a mid size wagon/hatch, so probably a liberty/outback or ZC Vectra (pending purchasing advice offered by some fellow GMIers
). We really don't need 2 wagons, so the Ex-cop V woudl suffice for towing etc. If their gearbox is the same as the VZ, the shift gate is slightly different so you don't have to press the release between D and 2nd. That means you can cruise along in top or just quickly slap the stick backwards and it will drop it to second with out any need for concentration. I've used it a few times to avoid ugly situations, like when a 5 ton flat bed towing an amusement ride, tried to pull into the left lane (where I was cruising at the posted limit of 70, my eye looking at the corner of his tray). I slapped the stick back to second and floored it. I did make it (obviously) but had to pull half into the emergency lane for the last quarter of his front end. I didn't even have time to toot.
If I jump into a VE ex cop, the most I will spend is probably wheels (if it has steelies) and maybe a growler and/or exhaust.
Still, much like all my plans, it is dependent on tab A fitting in slot B after a re-bore of cylinder F, which can be fit over bollard C on the 2nd wednesday of the first new moon.
For example: To get this car, I have to build a house. To build the house I need to estimate the cost of the Owner builder design. To accurately estimate the cost (in accordance with bank requirements) I need to complete a certified owner builder course. I set out a date for the owner builder course as available, based on the gap between annual leave ( a trip to see the olds in Melbourne) and my companies annual strategy meeting.
My daughter broke her arm yesterday. It was right on the tip of her elbow so it can't go in a cast. As a result, holidays had to be rescheduled pushing back my owner builder course >accurate estimation>and building window by a few months, resulting in an increased cost (through forecast material increases) and thus poorer financial situation.
My life (and goals) are one big evolutionary cascading GANTT chart. Some people think my direction is fuzzy. If they had better resolution, they could see the tiny details.