'Space, I think at the end of the day, you'll be happier with your LTZ. I'd think iwth the fuel injection and modern technology, it would actually be a tick faster than a stock SS of the 80's, with all there emissions equipment. You know you like them It will ride more comfortably, be easier on gas, and quite frankly, I like today's styling better than the 80's (never was a fan of anything 80's, Monte Carlo is honestly my favorite car from the era but I still prefer a 7th gen). The insurance may be a little higher, but you could probably save it in fuel. The reliability should be a bit better, and you may even get a little warranty leftwith an 06.Car's tend togo to the bad if you don't use them. The cars that break down are the ones that sit in thegarage and only comeout once every week or so (aka, an 80's MonteCarlo with really low miles). Atleast thats been my experience with cars, what little I do have

 

Hey Space I was thinking when i Got my SS my insurance did not change a bit. I had an 06 LT Monte with the 3.5l.
Check with your Ins agent if there is gonna be a diff beteen the LTZ and SS.