2000 Silverado, Repair Of Replace?

[piscator]

My 2000 Silverado (1500LS, Z71, 5.3, ext cab) has been worked pretty hard and now needs body-work, paint, tires, brakes, upholstery and various other repairs. I got estimates from two reputable GM dealers and it looks like $3k to $4k.

 

I love this truck - but I can buy a newer 1500LS, LT for not much more than the cost of the repairs + trade-in. Repair? Replace? Any suggestions?

 

Also, I like the styling of the older GMT800 series and find it hard to reach into the bed of the newer GMT900 trucks. I've also found several 2007 'classic' that are pristine. It would cost a bit more, but should I 'invest' in the 'last of my favorite truck version'? Are the later GMT800's significantly 'better' than the 2000-2002 models?

 

Finally, my daughters are just edging into their teens and I'm wondering if I'll need the 'Crew Cab'. I like the Ext Cab and don't like giving up the 6' bed, but the girls won't get smaller! I need to take them along...and all the the bicycles, kayaks and gear they seem to require :-)

 

I'd really appreciate any 'Repair or Replace' advice you might have.

 

Thanks, piscator