So I spent the weekend - and Monday (since I was off) looking for a Convertible GT with manual tranny - 2006. Called 12 dealers, visited 4. Chicago land had 3 available. Prices ranged from $37k all the way to $55k. I am not sure what the $55k included. No one wanted to deal - everyone wanted to push the v-6 convertibles on me and deal on that.
Went to Gary Lang Chevy dealer and for the hell of it test drove the C6 without the Z71 package (the z71 was just too stiff). Anyway - A new 2006 Black Corvette with the 3lt package - so loaded without the NAV was listed at $50188. I got it for $43300 out the door. (no trade in - just a cash transaction). So there is a 400HP 6.0 liter beast in my garage now.
I was torn between the two. The mustang looks very cool, and I think so does the vette. I liked the 4 seats in the mustang.
That was my story. Thanks for all that answered my questions here.
Dan