used parts are where its at. you'll be around a grand for a top swap. maybe a bit more. with all bolts and gaskets and fluids. ( you should really squeeze a set of headers in the budget) you'll have a tad more HP then a gtp. and the stock tranny should be ok if you dont flog it daily.
just shop smart, take your time looking for parts, as one day nothing, then bam! what you want is up for sale at a price you like. or can live with.
i spend 3 months trolling craigslist for wheels. i watched a set re listed 3 times, then i called for them lol got 100 off his asking price too. he was happy to get rid of them.
