I have an old GoPro I was hoping to repurpose. Plus since long battery is more priority than light weight, GoPro makes one of THESE that would allow me to plug into a USB Barry pack for longer life.
I'll look into a screen you suggested. I'm really hoping to be able to zoom in tight.
I have an older GoPro 3 that's chin mounted. I got sick of the crappy battery life and opted for one of these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JXNX6BU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. Run the cord to your chin strap and then plug it into a power bank in your jacket pocket. If your sd card is smallish, i think the GoPro has a loop feature.
There are a few variants of these but try this: http://www.amazon.com/Switronix-DVGP3USB-Battery-Eliminator-10-Feet/dp/B00JXNX6BU
Or this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00QMRUJD8/ref=pd_aw_sim_421_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=095VYWW5M9AJ5JD3289F
I'm thinking about buying one of these: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JXNX6BU/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
And then getting a 64 gig card. Thoughts?
It was on Amazon.
Switronix DVGP3USB GoPro 3/3+ Battery Eliminator USB with 10-Feet Power Cable (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JXNX6BU/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_o9H3ub1VB8NJ0
They got a coupon on Amazon right now too
What GoPro model is it? If it is plugged in with a battery in it the charging cycle will constantly be creating heat. Try to use it with out the battery in it helps keep the heat down. Or you can use a "battery eliminator" from switronix. They work great, here is a link. http://www.amazon.com/Switronix-DVGP3USB-Battery-Eliminator-10-Feet/dp/B00JXNX6BU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462735220&sr=8-1&keywords=battery+eliminator
Just get the lower cost Hero's. The budget models aren't too badly priced. Also you can get a battery eliminator and set the camera up to automatically record on boot.
But, if you have no need for a gopro and just want a dash cam, then by all means go with a dedicated system.