Did 350 TPI (L98) cars ever come with a Manual? Were there 350's before 87?
History / RestorationGot a question about Third Gen (1982-1992) Camaro or Firebird history? Where can I find these original parts? What is this option or RPO code? Those questions, answers, and more!
Welcome to ThirdGen.org!
Welcome to ThirdGen.org.
You are currently viewing our forum as a guest, which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our community, at no cost, you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is free, fast and simple, join the ThirdGen.org community today!
Did 350 TPI (L98) cars ever come with a Manual? Were there 350's before 87?
The answer is no to both. There was never a factory production 350 TPI Third Gen with a manual. Not a 1LE, not a Special Edition, nothing. It was only available with the 700-R4 Auto because of concerns about the T-5 not being able to handle the L98's Torque, especially if driven aggressively. Cost, certification, and possibly the Corvette (having to be faster) were also reasons that this never happened.
So, if you think you have one, you don't! If you think you've seen one, you haven't! (stock of course ) There were test cars, but test cars never make it to the public. Anything that says different is incorrect misinformation. You can check if you like.
8th digit of VIN:
350: 8
305: F
Transmission RPO:
Auto 700-R4: MXO
Manual T-5: MM5
There was also never a 350 TPI F-Body before 87. There were test cars but they too never made it to the public. 87 was the first year for the 350 in the Third Gen F-Body and was the official model year release.
Thanks for reading.
This ad is not displayed to registered members. Register your free account today and become a member on ThirdGen!
__________________ 1987 CHEVROLET CAMARO IROC-Z28
-Red with Grey Custom Cloth, 1SC Interior Option Level 3, and T-Tops.
-350ci TPI 5.7 Liter L98, (225HP/330TQ) 700-R4, Discs, 9-Bolt Posi with 3.27's, G92 options included with RPO B2L in 87. Shipping weight: 3,461lbs.
-Mods: TPiS airfoil, K&N filters, custom PROM with 160* stat, cut airbox, ACDelco RF spark plugs, MSD 8.5mm wires, MSD coil, TB coolant reroute, CarSound-MagnaFlow high-flow converter/3" exhaust with Flowmaster 80 Series/stainless angle cut tips, 2,200RPM TC, Spohn SFC's, BFG g-Force T/A KDW's and Nitto DR's, 460 watt sound system with bass tube, otherwise, factory.
-The exact car I searched 4 1/2 years for! It still has original Van Nuys paint, all documentation, and 76,000 miles.
-G-Tech 0-60: 6.06sec with spin. (KDW's)
1989 CHEVROLET CAMARO RS
-Red with Grey Deluxe Leather Interior and T-Tops.
-173ci MPFI 2.8 Liter LB8, 700-R4, 10-Bolt with 3.42's.
-Mods: K&N's and AR rims.
-The daily driver with 139,000 miles!