i have a chance to finance a '96 SSEi that seems to be in excellent condition.

i know that both years must be identical, if not the same BUT:
However from doing research, i have seen that alot of the real power adders available (not custom makes) are all for 97+ models.

will i be left out on the aftermarket for the series II if i get a 96?

thanks.

The primary difference is the 96 has the 4T60E trans, not the 4T65E like later years. This is not a problem. The 60 seems to be less troublesome, even with the Series 2. Bulletproof trans work and shift kits are available (check my sig).

INTENSE doesn't offer a PCM for 96, but DHP does.

That'* about it. Identical otherwise.

The 97 and above SSEi models got the new transmission, the 65E-HD. The 92-96 had the 60E. I believe that slight PCM differences also set the 96 off from the 97'*. 96 was an odd year in between changes so that'* why there'* not a lot of aftermarket for them.

Custom everything that is avail, Engine and Trans and everything else for that matter for the 97+ is aval for the 96, and DHP is making the PCM for the 96'*

and the only other difference is that the 96 has the Delco 8 speaker system with a Gain slider as apposed to the Bose 8 speaker amped system

The original poster asked if parts were as readily available for the 96'* as the 97'*. In other words, there are options for 96 owners, but are there as many? That was the original question.

EDIT. (for my horrible grammar. haha)

heads on the 97 are not the same

All engine mods are IDENTICAL. Intercoolers, pulleys, intakes, exhaust, you name it.

The ONLY difference is a different trans/shiftkit (readily available) and the INTENSE PCM isn't compatible, but the DHP is.

IDENTICAL otherwise as I stated above.

thanks everyone for taking the time to chime in!.

i didnt think of the PCM. It makes sense now.

The main reason why i ask, is because for almost a year i have been on the hunt for boost. I am also considering a top end swap for my 94 (to make up for the lack of boost)

Chritsmas has come early for me, since i have found two SSEis in good condition and i can afford.
a white '92 i will get it if the owner accepts 1,000-1,500$ (he is asking for 3,000$)
Link
and
a dark green '96 availale for finance, i have not seen this one in person.
Link

i am leaning more towards the 96 since its available for monthly payments and i can put some cash into it right away.

i really want either one.
suggestions?

thanks

NO top swap. The only one in existence here is NOT happy. We've stated time and again that it'* a bad idea for many reasons.

Other than that idea, I think you need to carefully look at both cars.

yeah swaping is not the best solution and not my first choice.

i will look at the 96 this weekend.

i have seen the 92 from the exterior, I will negociate and see what happens. It is for sale at a mechanics shop around here and apperantely it belongs to the shop owner. hes an older gentlemen.

thanks for the input.