An inch to 1.25" drop is still very noticable. It will look great. I promise. Look at Steeda's cars for example. Go to similar sites as Steeda such as Saleen, Global West, Griggs, IPS, and MRP Racing. They all only drop their cars 1-1.25". Your car will also handle and ride the best at that height. You can get the CC plates before the shocks/struts. Just make sure you get the shocks/struts in the very near future. I'm sure the shocks/struts will remind you about it in about 8-10K miles when they are shot. You should be alright for about the 3000 miles like you said.
Good luck. Keep us posted. Oh, and welcome to the board.
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FOR SALE: 1996 Mustang GTS: 5-speed, K&N, removed air silencer, 3.73s, 16 inch Mustang GT wheels; 48,000 miles. $11,500
[This message has been edited by 96GTS (edited 10-03-2000).]