2 replies to this topic

[Gsmith4848]

Hello, 

 

Brand new to this website, so im really sorry if someone has made this topic before (currently deployed in the middle east, our internet has problems loading web pages on most days). Im thinking about buying an 84 trans am with the 5 speed manual. 88k miles, in really good condition. What things should i be looking for before making the purchase? Any known problems i need to be aware of? It doesnt need to be a speed demon, just looking for a fun cruising car. Will i be disappointed with the L69 for this purpose? I have thought about the possibility of doing an engine swap and dropping a 350 in. If i do that what else will need to be changed? What 350s should i be looking at? (iv thought about chevy crate engines) How much hp can the trans handle? Sorry if i sound like an idiot im not the most knowledgeable on this era of cars. Any advice or recommendations are appreciated. Thank you and have a good day!  

[ZumpTA]

The T5 can't handle the torque of the 350, that's why they were never sold with a 350/5-spd combo.  To be honest, I don't think you'd be disappointed even the slightest with the 5.0L/5-spd unless your expectations are unrealistic.  While the 80s may have absolutely *sucked* for horsepower ratings, they still had 300+lbft of torque, most of it down low in the RPM band, so, still very respectable off the line and through the gears.  Definitely fun to drive in my opinion.  Around town, you're never really going to get up into the RPM range where peak horsepower is normally found, at least, not long enough to enjoy it.  300+ torque on the other hand, just as good as the LS/LT1's.  Plenty of pull where it's really needed and truly enjoyable.

[Injuneer]

Here's a good article that includes someone’s personal experience with the star.. 

 

https://www.hemmings...ontiac-trans-am

 

The L69 was rated at 190 HP, and 240 lb-ft at 3,200 RPM.  Typically ran the 1/4 in 15.5-seconds @ 90 MPH.

 

https://oldcarmemori...e-1980s-legend/