Peg_Leg_Pete

Hi, im going to a begining driver soon and im interested in saving my money and getting a 3rd generation Camaro. Can you guys give me a breakdown on the differences between the Z28 the RS and the IROC?

which year and which model comes with the best engine with the best potential?

Which year and model comes with the best horse power and torque ratings?


when i look at the cars what problems should i look for when im shoppin?

Thanks in advance

PEG

97WS6SCharged

The Iroc, Z28, and RS are all trim levels. The Iroc and Z28 got the best engines of the three. The best engine offered in the 3rd gen was a TPI 350. Output was around 230 hp and 350 tq. I've always looked to see if the t tops were leaking and then for general maintenance stuff. Does it burn/use oil? Does anything leak? Is the rearend noisy? Does the tranny shift well? That kinda thing. If nothing else, take it to a trusted mechanic and have them look it over real well. If the owner won't allow that, then pass on the car. It's ok for these cars to have a few problems, they are 12+ years old now.

PyRo9862

Wow, general breakdown where to begin.
http://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/tech/techdb.shtml
That gives you alot of good information on what cars came with what motors.
Half the camaros out there are 350's when people are looking to sell them. If someone claims the car is a 350 look at the 8th charachter in the vin if it is an 8 then it's a 350, if not there full of it. There was never a 350/5spd combo.

RS, Iroc, and Z28 are more than apearance.
The RS came with a 2.8 and later a 3.1L, with an optional 305. The Z28 and Iroc came with a 305 (more powerfull than the rs 305), and after 86 an optional 350. The Iroc and Z28 also had a stiffer suspention. The iroc is the only one to get the wonderbar (a cheap piece, don't let it influance your decision). The Iroc is basically the top of the line except for 91-92 when the z28 became king again.