Need opinion on fix/replace current tires.

[Footloose301]

I just went thru an intersection and got half a razor blade in my tire. I went flat in about one minute. Its a gash in the tread. Its about 1" in length. I stopped by Tire Kingdom on my way home and said they won't repair it because its a performance tire. In my opinion its not too bad and I think a patch would be fine. They quoted me $298 for the tire from Tirerack plus shipping and balancing/mounting.

I'm heading to Marazzi Nissan tomorrow for the first oil change. I've got about 4000 miles on the car so I'll be there already and I'm sure they've got the tire in stock. I'm guessing it'll be $400 for the tire from Nissan. What should I do? Would it be "okay" to patch the tire or should I definitely get it replaced? Also, having 4000 miles on the other rear tire already.... will that affect me in any way by getting a new tire on the other side?




On a side note: My 40th might look killer with black wheels too.