[ApeXX]

Originally Posted by ReverendDexter 200 lbs? Where are you getting that number? I don't even think it's a 200lb difference to go to the IRS. The 8.8" rear MIGHT be 30 lbs heavier than a 7.5". That being said, you're going to have a little more rotating mass, and a little more parasitic loss because of it, to gain a fairly significant jump in strength, and easier to source parts/upgrades. I would look at the rest of your plan for the vehicle. If you're talking about adding a lot of power, than yes, an 8.8 would be worth it. If you're gonna abuse the crap out of it, than an 8.8 would give you some extra reliability.

The 8.8 is better but cost more money not to mention the installation and the 150~200 more lbs.

Someone else said that earlier in the thread, I can't remember who it was though. I'm not looking to "abuse the crap out of it", simply my weekend warrior that can take a fair amount of controlled fun.

Actually my biggest concern is winter driving, in which I've heard the posi is almost an essential.

[ReverendDexter]

Well, I would disagree with the posi being essential for winter driving.

If anything, driving a short wheelbase RWD with a limited slip gets really unpredictable. You will have more traction for take-off, but you'll also slide around a LOT more as sides get varying amount of traction and the rear end keeps locking up on you because of it.

And I'll reiterate about the 8.8 NOT being 200 lbs more than a 7.5. I don't even think the rear end weighs 200 lbs in the first place, hahaha.

[ApeXX]

Originally Posted by ReverendDexter Well, I would disagree with the posi being essential for winter driving. If anything, driving a short wheelbase RWD with a limited slip gets really unpredictable. You will have more traction for take-off, but you'll also slide around a LOT more as sides get varying amount of traction and the rear end keeps locking up on you because of it. And I'll reiterate about the 8.8 NOT being 200 lbs more than a 7.5. I don't even think the rear end weighs 200 lbs in the first place, hahaha.

I wasn't aware of the sliding around due to rearend lock, however my main concern was take off. My friend's Mustang (V6, no posi) has had many problems trying to gain traction starting off (especially on hills) with the "one-wheel deal".

Although I can honestly say I know much less about this than yourself, so please do let me know what you'd recommend.