The truck in question has the title headache? Where's that? There has been a lot alleged but I didn't see any real title issue verified. I don't see where you're getting a non grey area title at this price either.What does it offer that the pic of the GP doesn't? Roof, doors, and probably a laundry list of other items. Since the auction has closed, you can't read whether or not the thing even starts, runs, etc.
The GP truck runs and drives. I've sold roofs for $400 and soft doors for $15. The SF97 with the m1123s is not branded as off road only. I'm not a hmmwv expert, but my understanding is that the M1123s have the updated suspension components and better engine and transmission.
Title headache is "potential title headache". The SF97 was branded "off road only" and was then titled in Florida without the off road restriction. Florida has stated an intention to revoke these titles and replace them with branded ones. (When a government agency expresses an intention to cause trouble, I'm inclined to believe them). But there's no certainty of title problems, just as there is no certainty of not having title problems on an M1123. I just think the odds are better on a nonrestricted titled M1123.
These are just my opinions, based on what I've seen, and based on my best guess. This whole post is a game of "Let's Spend Bill''s Money", with the goal of getting the most truck for the least expenditure. Stated goals have been a turn key truck that's legal for use on the road. With those goals in mind and an operating budget of $18k, I think the M1123 with an unrestricted title is the place to start.
Let me reiterate that I still think that the whole issue of hmmwvs on the street has yet to be resolved. I think they'll either be blanket banned or blanket allowed, title status be ****ed. But that's just my best guess also.