I wish I had taken more pictures of the car, especially of the street terror-carnage, while it was in my posession. But really, who hasn't witnessed a small block powered screaming chicken peel out from their local high school parking lot?That being said, the Trans Am and Camaro are truly the basic hot rod of North America. The 5.7 litre LT1 V8 packs a punch, with a performance to dollar ratio rivaled only by the 5.0 litre Fox Body Mustang.
Drop the hammer on this bad boy at any speed below 80kph(50mph), and the 4L60 4-speed transmission will toss the screaming small block right into power country, kicking the rear end sideways.
This car lacked the shift-it-yourself feature of the T56 6-speed manual transmission that I prefer after having driven a similar F-body with that option. The 6-speed manual makes the car that much more controllable, as you can better meter how much torque makes it to the rear wheels via the slip of the clutch. With the automatic, you have to be prepared for low speed, full throttle downshifts as the gearbox will immediately put as much power to the ground as is available.
Before things get too messy, the tight suspension and capable brakes will be able to get things under control. With some stickier tires and warmer weather, this car would be a lot easier to hook up on the street. I wish I had some VHT traction compound. So goes the weather around these parts, forget about going anywhere, let alone forward, in the snow.
The Trans Am's 245/50/16 tires and suitable suspension make the car more than decently cornerable, just make sure youve got your Molly Hatchet cd going, because you'll be flirtin' with disaster if you give it any kind of throttle, mid turn.
Snobby, supposed connaisseurs, like to trash talk solid live axle setups in modern cars. (You know, the guys who feign interest in IRL racing). Blasphemy! In the Trans Am, the 3.42 limited slip 10-bolt provides a sturdy foundation for wild donuts in mall parking lots. You'll easily smoke out the place, whipping around and around, while Round n Round blares out of the 6-speaker Monsoon sound system.
Despite the cliches out there about the f-body cars, a lot of people really liked the Trans Am. This clean, low metrage car had looks that could appeal to just about anyone as a sports/muscle car. Most guys already know what its all about, most girls want to find out. Out cruising, you'll get the occasional glance from a passer-by who's ear caught the burbling exhaust note.
Even my 77 year old grandma wanted to check it out. Her arthritic knees wouln't let her in or out of the drivers seat, but she agreed that the car looked as if it could easily kill myself and three other willing participants.
The parents of today won't let the kids of today drive Trans Ams. Just as well, because that lazy offspring couldn't afford one unless it was given to them. Since you can't buy a new one from the Poncho dealer anymore, most clean used examples end up in the hands of 20 somethings (like me) that are looking for some affordable power and relative style. Or they go home with guys my dads age with some spare change to throw around.
An LT1 4th gen ('93-'97) in overall good shape, with reasonable metrage will cost you anywhere from about $3500 to $8500. There are a lot of owners out there who feel their 200,000km, worn out Firebird is worth $9000, so don't be afraid to wait for a good deal. GM made a ton of these cars, so don't blow your whole wad (of cash) on something rough.
They make great cars for the street or track, theres a plethora of aftermarket parts for them and they are cost effective. Don't be off put by your Acura driving co-worker, Camaros and Trans Ams are still cool, and fun as all hell to drive. Especially if you're gonna need a speedy car..."Speedier than that..."
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