Edgieguy, while I agree with purchasing the thing that you want, I am conflicted because I prefer the technology of the LTD, I do like the appearance of the SEL with the "upgraded" exterior. I am content to black-out or 'dip the features of the LTD that I dislike. In this case I think it would be easier to modify the exterior of the LTD than it would be to increase the tech level of the SEL. The price that I am at currently also gets me in an LTD for ~$2.5k more than an SEL, so I'm swayed by that to boot.
Thanks for the advice though! Just gives me more opportunity to tinker!
Symbasys: I think I will end up just plasti-dipping the features that I find too ostentatious. Not really a big deal, just some work. I may have to try working with the dealer to get a line of rims, but we'll see how receptive they are to the idea.