2005 Turbo lite or HO

[PTNorth]

I'm trying to decide between these two engines, and I would like to get people's input. I know they use different fuel and have different sized rims. What I would like to know is:

How does their reliability differ?

Other than acceleration, how does their performance differ?

Are their any advantages and disadvantages between them?

Is the HO more difficult and/or expensive to maintain (other than the fuel grade)?

Are there any problems with their automatic transmissions (I"m having a really difficult time finding either model in manual transmission)?

Any differences in their MPG?

PS Although I started a similar thread in the convertible section (that is the model I'm seeking), I realized after the fact my questions had little to do with being convertible. I apologize for the double post.

thnx

[quicksilverdon]

My daughter and son-in-law each have GTs, I have a Lite (and owned a N/A before) so I can compare.
I think the Lite is the best compromise. The GTs feel "lighter", because they have more pep. Mileage - don't know about GT, because they don't keep records, but I do, and the Lite actually gives me a mpg or 2 better than my N/A did.
I find the Lite has enough oomph.
You noted the 17" wheels - they have each lost a rim to potholes (luckily I bought 3 extras) - tho to be fair, I lost 1 rim on my N/A.
Cost is the biggest factor - you pay premium prices every fill-up, and tires for 16 last longer, are cheaper, and selection is bigger.
GTs also have 4-wheel disk w/ABS, which you can get on a Lite (I did), but all GTs come that way.

[PTNorth]

Thanks, that was quite helpful

[careyk]

I like the ooomph of the H.O........the tires are expensive for the 17" wheels....I am going to have to replace the fronts next year or the year after....i don't drive in winter the GT....I just recently had a 4 wheel alignment...the rear tires are like new. I would say I have put less than 30000km on this set.The Gt HO with a 5speed is a hoot to drive....trust me....sure would be nice to find a stage 1 set up