RB I totally agree. It also comes down to what your time is worth.

Two other considerations:
If I can afford the 328 but not the M3, I'll get the 328 over taking the bus.

An LS swapped project may cost the price of a used corvette when complete, but some people want to do it themselves with some kit mounts etc. regardless of the financial costs.

Comes down to what your needs are for yourself, and what you're trying to accomplish with the project. If it's to keep up with the jones' or show off then life's only going to get harder.