I had a classic 96. It was leaps and bounds better than a hf box. It held a ton of tools. I had it loaded heavy, and it took it very well. To hold all of the same tools I had to get a 56 top and bottom and a tool cart. I had to sell my classic when I was in a money pinch.....and I was not wrenching at the time. I paid 3700 off the truck. I dont think they are worth the retail price........but way ahead of a hf box. If I had the money that you are saying you have to spend......I would save a little longer for a krl. They are built very well, and seem to be the industry standard that everything else is compared too. There is a reason for that.