03 BA XT to 06 VE Omega V - Worth $6k changeover?

[Pat Riley]

I have a 2003 BA XT Falcon with 129,924 kms - originally paid $6,300 for it over 2 years ago now. I can probably still sell it at a profit now, maybe $7,500.

Looking at getting a 2006 VE Omega V in silver for ~$13,500 with ~ 100,000 kms

Do you think for a car 3 years newer, with 30,000 kms less, effectively the next generation model up (BA/BF vs VY/VZ) and (FG vs VE), it's worth $6k changeover?

I really like the exterior look of the VE Omega V in silver. I like both of the interiors of the VE and BA, but the VE is in my opinion worse than the FG, but is better than the BA (BA looks nice but bits fall apart - console lid, cup holder etc). So from the exterior and interior look and feel of the car, I much prefer the VE.

Only thing I wouldn't really like is I'd be going into a heavier car with a less powerful engine. What is the Falcon 4sp box like compared to the revised 4sp auto in the VE. Better or worse? What about the Barra 182 vs the standard alloytec? I thought the Falcon had the better gearbox even in the 4sp auto and the better engine.

What would you do if you weren't biased towards either manufacturer?

Link of the 2 cars (specs/price) below:

REDBOOK COMPARISON