help with selecting gpu for all around gaming,work,media pc

my dad is letting me build him a pc. i just want to know if i should get him a 8600 or 8800gts 640mb. he wants it to be able to do anything he needs to do. auto cad,light gaming, big high res monitor. so would it be worth it to go el cheapo with the 8600. if there is a better card for the cash please send a link.

The 8800 GTS 320 MB is probably the best bang for the buck.

The 8800 GTS 640 MB is MUCH better than the 320 MB in some games but identical in others.

The 8600 is more expensive than it's worth. Get the 8800 GTS 320 MB instead if your budget is in that area.

I guess it depends on what games your Dad likes. Look at these benchmarks to get a better idea.

http://www23.tomshardware.com/graphics.html

100% agreed with previous poster about waiting for AMD's R600. It may offer you some new and better alternatives or force some price cuts for the 8800 cards.

ow yah and where would be a good place to sell a radeon x1600pro 512mb agp.and a Sapphire x1600xt 256mb 256 gpu at.