Opinions on late 80's camaro's

[Arkangel]

Hey guys, I've been looking to get a late 80's (86-89) but I don't know much about them . My neighbor has an '88 IROC that is absolutley beautiful. I've found some decent looking ones on autotrader and ebay, but it's always been to little to late.

My dad says they "suck and don't work very well" and that "they were never built very well and rattle a lot" but I wanted to get some second opinions on it. What do you all know about the camaro?

Any sort of information would be much appreciated.

Btw, I do have a somewhat hindered spending limit of about 6,000 if I sell my '95 Celica.

 

[xXSilencerXx]

I think they are awsome cars. I don't know a ton about them, but sayin they rattle and stuff isn't that bad. I mean all F-body's that I know of ride hard, It's a sports car c'mon its gunna ride hard. So crap is bound to rattle eventually.

There are members on here that probably know a good deal about them though.

 

[Tornado]

The 3rd Gen. Camaro suffers from one of the most rediculous stereotypes since the Yugo, and is about as misjudged. They ride hard because they were cheap cars.
They are fast for what they are, and certain ones (Iroc-Z, late 3rd Gen. Z/28) handle very well in addition. If you ar serious about getting one, common consensus says to avoid the 5.0L V8 models, as they are the most emmisions straddled of them. The L98 5.7 V8 or the L03/LB9 5.0L are the way to go for more of a powerful car. You should also be able to get a good one (Iroc-Z or 1990-'92 Z/28) for less than $5,000. If you feel they need more punch, a few cam and computer adjustments can easily take the 5.7 to 300 BHP, and the 5.0 to 250-275 BHP.

 

[1X83Z]

Here's the thing about the third-gen Camaro.

These guys own one each.

 

[sn00pie]

And they both own this T-Shirt:

 

[TheCracker]

This guy aspires to own one



..when he's not aspiring to make you 'squeel like a piggy'

 

[IMADreamer]

My cousin had a camaro of that generation and I know we had a lot of stupid fun in it in high school. It did rattle a lot, but it was fun. It was reliable too, but that was 15 years ago so just because it was reliable then doesn't mean it will be now. It will also seat 12 people. Don't ask how but it will.

 

[NSX-R]

Do they have independent-suspension? Pushrod engine?

 

[ozyran]

Having previously owned a 3rd-gen F Body, I naturally locked in on this thread. When I owned my 1989 Firebird (essentially the same as a Camaro except for the body), I did a *lot* of research on the beast when I owned her and acquired knoweledge from as many people as I could. If you do buy one, I have a few pointers for you that might be worth considering when you make your decision.

If you decide to get the L98 TPI 5.7L V-8, she puts out about 235 hp and 345 lb-ft of torque. The LB9 gives you, depending on year, 220-230 hp and roughly 300 lb-ft of torque.

Avoid the V-6s at all costs! Unless you want a low-cost, cheap Camaro, stay away from the V-6 in the 3rd gens. To give you an example, the 2.8L V-6 was rated at about 135hp; the 3.1L was rated at 140 hp. The 2.7L 4-banger in my '97 Toyota Tacoma puts out 150 HP. 'Nuff said about the engines.

The only transmission you'll find bolted to the L98 that came from the factory is the TH700R-4 4-speed automatic. If you want a 5-speed manual you're looking at getting the 5.0L V-8.

If you get a 3rd gen, go 1988 or later. 1987 and earlier 3rd-gen Camaros were still suffering from the kooky quirks of the experimental smog-control setups and they didn't begin to approach refinement until 1988. The best years for the 3rd gen were 1991 and 1992, IMO. The 3rd Gen was built from 1982 to 1992 and the bodies on the '91/'92 look the best - the basic body style remained relatively unchanged except for some extra fiberglass here and there. They're the most refined from that generation of Camaros.

Things to look for:
*Coolant system leaks. The coolant system is prone to all kinds of corrosion and will be a source of many a headache if you get one that has a leaky coolant system.

*T-Top seals! If you get a Camaro with T-tops, plan on replacing the seals if they haven't been already. GM is notorious for having leaky T-tops on anything they made in the '80s.

*Posi rear axle: If you're looking to get the best traction off the line and don't really care about high-speed cornering, then a Posi is the way to go.

That's all that comes to mind right now. Have fun! The 3rd gen f-bodies are a blast to drive, look pretty good for their age, and can hold their own against some of your lower-tiered sports cars. They can be had for decent prices, usually, and the money you have left over can be used on things like a K&N FIPK, headers, a pair of high-flow cats, and a decent exhaust system.

Also, check out this link for further information. You could also check out http://www.thirdgen.org for an exhaustive resource on the beasties .

Do they have independent-suspension? Pushrod engine?

No Camaro or Firebird produced by GM had independent rear suspension. All of them had pushrod engines out of the factory from 1966-2002.

 

[Arkangel]

Here's the thing about the third-gen Camaro.

http://media.urbandictionary.com/image/large/hick-23787.jpg

These guys own one each.

I live in Kansas, everyone here looks like that. I take it only 'hicks' drive them?

My only worry about the V8 is comes with is the gas mileage. My Celica gets great mpg, nearly 320 miles to a 13 gal tank.

Edit: That's a whole lot of info, Ozyran, thanks a bunch. Hopefully I can get my dad to change his mind.

 

[Jim Prower]

They're good cars.

Bad ride? Rattle? Inexpensive performance car. it doesn't matter much

They don't rust much, unless abused. You can get engine parts anywhere. they're easy to work on, easy to modify, and reliable.

you can get one rather inexpensivley, as it's rare you'll find one over $10G. In fact, your $6G should cover it, especially if you live in the midwest.

things to watch out for:
bald tires, especially on the rear, are a good sign of abuse.
Rust: not notorious for it, so it's a sign of neglect
Worn parts: signs of abuse

Things you want:
New/fresh engine: drives like brand new, and usually within your budget. often faster, too. look out for a boor engine swap.

and remember: If it seems too good to be true...it probably is.

 

[ozyran]

If it seems too good to be true...it probably is.

That's some sage advice right there.

Edit: Your welcome, Ark. PM me sometime and I'll tell you about the F-body vs. the 5.0s...heh heh heh. Also, your spending budget puts you within reach of the C4 Corvette

 

[Duke]

Here's the thing about the third-gen Camaro.

These guys own one each.

Here's the thing about mid-90's Volvo sedans.

This guy loved his to pieces.

 

[Tornado]

Here's the thing about the third-gen Camaro.
These guys own one each.

Here's the thing about 3rd gen. Camaros: by pushing that outdated stereotype you are only making it worse. I knew someone was going to drag up that crap, but I'm surprised it was you.

 

[Duke]

I knew someone was going to drag up that crap, but I'm surprised it was you.

Don't be surprised.

 

[YSSMAN]

Let me make a few things known:
1) I'm a GM guy
2) Chevrolet is my brand of choise
3) The only car they have made better than the Camaro is the Corvette

...but...

If youre looking to spend that much money on a Camaro, you are going to be FAR better off picking up a late-model 4th gen (1993-2002) Camaro. They were built better, were more fuel efficent, drove better, and overall would be much nicer to live with on a day-to-day baisis.

You could probably find a nicely equipped '93-'97 (rectangle headlights) Z/28 for a pretty decent price, and you would be looking at a respectable 260 BHP out of the LT-1 EFI, 0-60 times in the low 6's/ high 5's, and overall pretty respectable performance.

Performance wise, the 4th gen 2.0s equipped with LS1 V8s are much faster (cut a second off the 0-60 and qtr mile times), but they come with a price as well.

Good luck finding what you want, and by all means, buy one with a stick...

 

[JCE]

One problem with your post YSSMAN, the 4th gen Camaros are ugly compared to the 3rd gen Camaros. Better MPG and technology maybe...but not better looks.

And to address the thread starter I owned a 1990 Camaro RS 305ci V8 with an auto transmission and it was a great fun car to drive. However, the interior will rattle and your patience needs to be high to deal with it. I got so fed up with the plastics rattling that I took out all of my interior except for the dash, driver's seat, and console. Then my hatch started to rattle and I welded it shut. Other than the interior annoyances it's a great looking car that's already a classic. And as someone said avoid the V6 engines at all costs...

 

[CAMAROBOY69]

Let me make a few things known:
1) I'm a GM guy
2) Chevrolet is my brand of choise
3) The only car they have made better than the Camaro is the Corvette

...but...

If youre looking to spend that much money on a Camaro, you are going to be FAR better off picking up a late-model 4th gen (1993-2002) Camaro. They were built better, were more fuel efficent, drove better, and overall would be much nicer to live with on a day-to-day baisis.

You could probably find a nicely equipped '93-'97 (rectangle headlights) Z/28 for a pretty decent price, and you would be looking at a respectable 260 BHP out of the LT-1 EFI, 0-60 times in the low 6's/ high 5's, and overall pretty respectable performance.

Performance wise, the 4th gen 2.0s equipped with LS1 V8s are much faster (cut a second off the 0-60 and qtr mile times), but they come with a price as well.

Good luck finding what you want, and by all means, buy one with a stick...

YSSMAN nailed it. However to add to his reply, if your even considering a 4th gen Camaro you should get a 4th gen Trans am. They are much better looking with almost exactly the same drivetrain. If you like the 4th gen Camaro or 4th gen trans am thats all a matter of opinion. I had a 96 Formula and that was a very very good car especially since it was a 6 speed, leather, and V8. Perfect combo for just about anything. I personally have never liked the 3rd gen camaro.

 

[southern347]

I'm a proud former owner of a 1987 Trans Am GTA...loved that car. It had the 5 speed, and came with the 5.0, but a swapped in 350 solved everything. These cars handle great, but are poorly built, and rattle alot. Stay away from t-tops. But remember, the newest 3rd gen camaro is 14 years old now, so you still may be better of buying a 4th gen z28 or t/a. The LT-1 is a great engine, and you can get either the T-56 six speed or, I believe, the updated auto, the 4L60e. Good Luck!

 

[1X83Z]

Here's the thing about mid-90's Volvo sedans.

This guy loved his to pieces.

How the hell did you find that picture?!

By the way, these people loved their Volvo 850 too:

Here's the thing about 3rd gen. Camaros: by pushing that outdated stereotype you are only making it worse. I knew someone was going to drag up that crap, but I'm surprised it was you.

Two things: one, I was joking. Which should've been obvious based on the photograph I posted. And two, we both know it's true, so why pretend otherwise?

 

[Tornado]

Fine, but one question: Holy crap my name is Firebird?!

 

[Arkangel]

I'm not a big fan of the 4th Gen looks but all the info you guys have posted has defenitely helped me and my quest . Just trying to show my pops otherwise so he'll agree with me.

 

[1X83Z]

Fine, but one question: Holy crap my name is Firebird?!

See! You're delusional - therefore my statements about the Camaro being owned by hillbillies is correct, while anything you've ever said, except when agreeing with me, is incorrect.

M5Power forever!

 

[Duke]

How the hell did you find that picture?!

I google imaged "Tom Wolfe" and picked my favorite. I thought the jacket and vest were much better in combination with the chair in this one, though I almost went for the walking-stick-and-spats image that popped up first.

 

[B_B_B]

The 3rd Gen. Camaro suffers from one of the most rediculous stereotypes since the Yugo, and is about as misjudged. They ride hard because they were cheap cars.
They are fast for what they are, and certain ones (Iroc-Z, late 3rd Gen. Z/28) handle very well in addition. If you ar serious about getting one, common consensus says to avoid the 5.0L V8 models, as they are the most emmisions straddled of them. The L98 5.7 V8 or the L03/LB9 5.0L are the way to go for more of a powerful car. You should also be able to get a good one (Iroc-Z or 1990-'92 Z/28) for less than $5,000. If you feel they need more punch, a few cam and computer adjustments can easily take the 5.7 to 300 BHP, and the 5.0 to 250-275 BHP.

few things about 3rd gens 82-92 f bodys they have a still ride because well thats they way a sport suspension is set. remember its not a cadillac. if your set on a 5 speed car really your best bet is with the tpi lb9 only because you cant get a l98 with a t-5 and the tpi cars have the most emissions garbage on them. from a reliability standpoint the tbi l03 is actually a great motor its just waaay underpowered rated at 170hp. try and find a lb9 5 speed car for the best find. unless you cant drive a stick then get a l98

btw great site for any 3rd gen owner thirdgen.org they even have classifieds lol