BPS will have their reel trade-in in a couple weeks.  And I've been tossing whether to go for an Abu that's cheaper but an icon in fishing, C3; or go w/ a more expensive newer model, the Record.  

Both are bullet proof & seems to have pretty good track records.  I've handled both & yes the C3 is slightly lighter, while the record does look sweet in blue w/ slight gray.

I don't recall the gear ratio for either, if they are similar or if one is a bit faster.  Never mind, I checked the gear ratio's & one model I am looking at have the same gear ratio, but I am looking at the C3 5501 & the Record 61.

I'm not including the C4 cuz I don't want the higher gear ratio.

So what do you guys think?  Go cheaper or go more expensive?  Also there's a $15 rebate through Abu Garcia....

The Records are really nice reels but they are a touch on the heavy side.  Can't make that decision for you though.  You're talking a decent difference in price.

I'd go with the Record.  The C3 is a classic reel.  The Record is a nicer upgrade with an effective brake and bearings where they count - 2 spool, 1 shaft end, 2 on the level wind, 1 anti-reverse.  Given that this reel has a non-disengaging level wind, the bearings in the level wind will help with casting distance.    

Not to disparage the C3, but if you buy the C3 you may wish you bought the Record.  If you buy the Record, you'll never want for the C3.

Here's a record review.

Abu Garcia Record Review

I have both reels, and I prefer the Record.

The record has a 6.3:1 gear ratio. 30 IPT retrieve rate. The C3 has 5.2:1 gear ratio 25 IPT retrieve rate.

In my opinion, the Record is worth the extra money. Both reels are bullet proof.

Falcon

I say the Record too. I have 2 Records(50 and 60) and several C3s. The C3 are good classics reels, but the Record is the pinnacle of this design.

I am going to say go with the C3, you won't have any trouble with it, and the newer 2007 and up models are a little more refined than previous generations. No doubt the Records are fantastic reels, but to me they are just too heavy.

I had my C3 upgraded with ball bearings on both ends of the level wind. S-M-O-O-T-H

I also have a C4 and did not like the high gear ratio, so I had the gears changed to 5.2 and level wind bearings installed too. Not quite as smooth.