Which LS1?
06-27-2003 | 06:44 PM
#1
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Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 7
Which LS1?
Ok, here's my situation, I'm new to the ls1 so forgive me if i say something stupid... for the longest time I was looking for an '01+ z28 m6 with less than 20,000 miles. But, I also found a formula trans am that I liked too. It was a '99 m6 with 35000 miles for around $16,000. I know very little about the differences in performance of these ls1 cars, but is it better to wait and see if I come across a z28 that meets my criteria or go for the trans am? Which is better, performance-wise? It seems to me that trans ams go for a higher price than z28s, but I'm not sure if why. I'm trying to think of the negatives and positives of getting the older, higher mileage trans am, such as lower insurance but I wouldn't get an ls6 intake. And the z28 would probably cost a bit more than the $16,000. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!
p.s.- i love the look of the trans am
p.s.- i love the look of the trans am
06-27-2003 | 09:01 PM
#2
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Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 1,486
From: FL
The '01 and '02 LS1 F-Bodies with the LS6 intake are more powerful than the '98-'00s, but they won't blow them off the road.
From the factory, most LS1 F-Bodies are really close in power and performance. An optioned out TransAm/SS with 345HP probably won't be that much faster than a bare bones '98 Z28 with 305 HP. I'd go for the cheaper one, because tires will be expensive once you have the car, just like everything else.
Just so you know, all Camaros and Firebirds are the same car. The engine, suspension, etc. is all the same.
From the factory, most LS1 F-Bodies are really close in power and performance. An optioned out TransAm/SS with 345HP probably won't be that much faster than a bare bones '98 Z28 with 305 HP. I'd go for the cheaper one, because tires will be expensive once you have the car, just like everything else.
Just so you know, all Camaros and Firebirds are the same car. The engine, suspension, etc. is all the same.
06-28-2003 | 12:35 AM
#5
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 1,697
From: Bay Area, CA
Originally posted by Schismblade
Trans Ams and firebirds cost more because they come with more standard options I believe.
Trans Ams and firebirds cost more because they come with more standard options I believe.
06-28-2003 | 01:30 AM
#6
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 148
From: Central California
Originally posted by praisez28
oh ok, thanks for the info
oh ok, thanks for the info
I have an '01 Z28, black on black with factory chrome spoke rims, automatic, PDL, Flowmaster, HyperTech, K&N, upgraded stereo/speakers,tinted windows, 30K miles that I am considering selling now that my project truck is almost complete (I don't need 2 vehicles). Where are you located? Write back if interested... we can discuss price, etc.
Daryl
California
06-28-2003 | 02:00 AM
#8
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 148
From: Central California
Originally posted by praisez28
ah, I live in Texas
ah, I live in Texas
I just ran a Kelly Blue Book on it: "good" condition is 16K; "excellent" is 17K. So somewhere in that ballpark is what we're looking at. Let me know...
Daryl
06-28-2003 | 09:03 AM
#9
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Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 989
From: Rochester, NY
Like a previous poster mentioned the trans am and z28 are the same engine/suspension wise so base your decision completely on looks. There is nothing worse then driving a z28 and saying to yourself damn that guys TA looks nicer or vis versa.
I obviously preferred the TA look but I have also owned several camaros. Personally I like the pop up head lights and I absolutely love driving fast at night with the t-tops off and those red dash lights makes my car seem demonic to me. VERY COOL. So just pick the one you like the looks of better and enjoy!
I obviously preferred the TA look but I have also owned several camaros. Personally I like the pop up head lights and I absolutely love driving fast at night with the t-tops off and those red dash lights makes my car seem demonic to me. VERY COOL. So just pick the one you like the looks of better and enjoy!
Last edited by darrens99formul; 06-28-2003 at 09:06 AM.
06-28-2003 | 09:58 AM
#10
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Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 245
From: South Texas
Originally posted by praisez28
ah, I live in Texas
ah, I live in Texas
Just try and find one that is not too beat up on. Find a friend that knows (these) cars and let him help you look at them. Decide if you want a 6-speed or auto and get what you want. Read up on all the features you can get. Later>>>>>>
07-07-2003 | 02:34 AM
#14
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Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 68
From: Gig Harbor WA.
keep looking a deal will come along. I bought my 02 Z28 with 3,000 miles on it with every option including ground fx, chrome wheels, t tops, leather, everything available except traction control and rear end upgrade for under $19,000. Plus being it was made in late 02 most of the factory warranty remains. Is very worth the wait.
07-07-2003 | 06:31 AM
#15
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Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 923
From: Plainfield IL
Originally posted by GoFast908Z
Trans Ams cost more because it is Pontiac's top end model. Pontiac doesn't have a version of the Corvette (performance and price wise), so the Trans Am is at the top of Pontiac's food chain, thus = more $$$. In theory of course. You can find deals on camaros and firebirds/trans ams. Just gotta look. With a good WS6 or Predator hood, the Trans Am will always look MEANER than the Z28 or SS. It just looks like its gonna bite you in the *** when it catches you.
Trans Ams cost more because it is Pontiac's top end model. Pontiac doesn't have a version of the Corvette (performance and price wise), so the Trans Am is at the top of Pontiac's food chain, thus = more $$$. In theory of course. You can find deals on camaros and firebirds/trans ams. Just gotta look. With a good WS6 or Predator hood, the Trans Am will always look MEANER than the Z28 or SS. It just looks like its gonna bite you in the *** when it catches you.