So i guess im too late to suggest a Lexus GS 430? ultra reliable V-8. Fun to drive. Tracked mine a few times, a 5,000 lb car eats tires up out there though.

 

If I had seen this thread earlier, I could have warned you. I truly hope things go well for you with that car. My wife had one when we met (still does 10+ years later), and my god do I hate that car with a passion. If you haven't discovered already, similar to other "premium" badged vehicles, you will always pay a "Lincoln" tax on any part you need that isn't from the Ford parts bin. The ballast for the rear neon, steering rack, interior pieces, etc. Exterior door handles like to break as well, seems to be made of cheap pot metal.

We also did the strut conversion on the car, got tired of the ridiculous prices on each piece that broke on the air bag system (which was nearly everything).

Hers is a 98 LSC in black as well. I wish you the best of luck!

 

Luckily there's a big support community for these cars - I've already purchased an aftermarket neon ballast for about 1/8th of what the dealer charges, from a guy on a forum. Lots of used parts available too. It's not Miata cheap, but if you shop smart it doesn't seem too bad, and the engine is a champ.

 

Might be one of the ugliest cars on the road lol

 

Probably the worst option from all presented in this thread, but if you're happy that's all that matters!