I'll try to answer as much as I feel like writing ... but you need to look up this stuff for yourself too. I could very well be wrong
Originally Posted by subaruboy
I'd prefer a '98, but would go back as far as '96 if I had to (don't want anything older than my monte).
If you're willing to get the 95-96 model years do that, they're MUCH cheaper than the 97-98.
Originally Posted by subaruboy
Besides that, I'm only considering a stick shift, and the car has to have a max of 90k miles on it.
Why the limit on miles? In general KA are good for much more than that not to mention you have plans on building a KAT. I'd take off that miles restriction, will open you up to getting more cars.
Originally Posted by subaruboy
What kind of price am I looking at? From recent observations, I'm thinking $8k... is that too low, or about right?
For what you've posted that you want that's about right for a 97+ subtract a few K for a 95-96 with similar stats. Subtract another few K if you just happen to fall upon a deal, while not out of the question they do come by every so often.
Originally Posted by subaruboy
Also, what about LSD? What years/models came with it? I read it was standard on the all wheel steering models (which I do not want). Was it only an option on all other models, and if it was, about how much would the cost be?
If you have any plans on racing the stock VLSD isn't very good. If the car doesn't come with the stock VLSD add ~$500 to get one installed, add ~$1000 for a good aftermarket LSD.
Originally Posted by subaruboy
Finally, as for building the car, I was thinking start with the obvious intake and exhaust, then suspension, and then going all motor. Suggestions/ opinions on exhaust? I read the A'PEXi N1 Dual was decent. Anyone use this? I HATE loud exhausts... I figure the dual will provide the airflow I need minus the obnoxious noise.
Because of the relatively big displacement of the KA most exhausts sound fine on it.
Originally Posted by subaruboy
Further down the line I figure I'll buy another KA24DE and turbocharge it while on the engine stand.
Sounds like a good plan.
Originally Posted by subaruboy
Any decent success stories of going all motor with the KA, and what kind of numbers are you putting on the ground?
Some company builds KA race engines that are in the 300HP range I believe.