Matte Vs Gloss
Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (9)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 898
Likes: 0
From: CT
Car: 1989 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 LS
Matte Vs Gloss
Wanting to get my camaro painted black but debating on flat or satin black with matte clear, or basic black with gloss clear coat.
hoping people will supply pictures. thanks!
hoping people will supply pictures. thanks!
Last edited by Timinsk; May 5, 2011 at 11:55 PM.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (9)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 898
Likes: 0
From: CT
Car: 1989 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 LS
Supreme Member




Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 2,169
Likes: 14
From: Dallas
Car: 1991 Trans Am Vert
Engine: 5.0 TPI
Transmission: T-5 baby
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Yup.. they look like cars looking for a paint job...
When you go to a body shop they look similar when they are 1/2 done.
Trending Topics
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
I think that the matte colors are something that will fade in popularity like Ghost flames and stuff like that eventually... Until that point might as well rock out with your... Satin paint!!! I know that 3M now has a satin film that can be applied over any color paint, and turn the paint below to a satin finish... You could paint your car gloss black, have the car wrapped in satin film, and remove the film when/if you ever decide to ditch the satin look.
This method is very popular in the high end luxury cars to preserve original paint/value, but be able to customize their vehicle until the point that they want to trade in/sell.
Good luck man!
This method is very popular in the high end luxury cars to preserve original paint/value, but be able to customize their vehicle until the point that they want to trade in/sell.
Good luck man!
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
I have seen some cars flat. This a rat rod thing. I just don't see third gens in the rat rod cadagory. It would look like spray paint. Paint it gloss, and enjoy polishing.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (9)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 898
Likes: 0
From: CT
Car: 1989 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 LS
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
was just an idea but all the matte looks were on full steel bodys not half plastic half steel.
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
You can see pics of my black IROC in my pic album. I know black is hard to keep clean, but I enjoy detailing my camaros. Make it shine.
Senior Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 670
Likes: 0
From: Round Rock, TX
Car: 1988 Firbird formula 350
Engine: 5.7L TPI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.27 Nine Bolt
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
I like a good deep gloss black finish, the satin/matte paint jobs don't appeal to me. The down side is gloss black will make any sheet metal problem stick out like a sore thumb and it's a job keeping it clean. Be sure you do good prep work on the body before painting if you go with the gloss black.
Supreme Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 1,204
Likes: 0
From: chicago IL
Car: 91 formula
Engine: 350 tuned port. bolt ons
Transmission: 700r4
Axle/Gears: 3.73
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
not my car but here you go. I love a nice shiny finish but my brother loves flat black thiid gen's
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,062
Likes: 1
From: Arizona
Car: 1989 Camaro RS--
Engine: MPFI
Transmission: 700r4
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Definitely deep gloss paint! But if I was getting a new paint job I would go with yellow, I think the third gens in yellow are hot! And don't get the vet yellow.
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,498
Likes: 20
From: PNW
Car: 91 Black Formula KR
Engine: 305 TPI R69/G92
Transmission: Astro A5-Pro 5.0-McCleod
Axle/Gears: US Gear 3.42 Eaton True Trac
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Ultimately, it's up to you... I agree with most, flat looks like primer...
My friend did his Caddy a semi gloss black and it looks really cool...
Enough to have a bit of shine, but not enough to make out reflections like pictures...
Do a Google image search too, many examples....
Rafael
My friend did his Caddy a semi gloss black and it looks really cool...
Enough to have a bit of shine, but not enough to make out reflections like pictures...
Do a Google image search too, many examples....
Rafael
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
After posting about the satin black vinyl wraps... I actually think I'm gonna do something with that now 
I will post pics when I'm done

I will post pics when I'm done
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Basically its a vinyl film similar to what is used to do Clear Bra applications.. designed for automotive application. I think the stuff started with sign companys, and has moved into high end vehicles because you change the appearance of the vehicle without actually altering the paint...
Example of a matte black wrap

Satin black wrap...


Neither of these cars looks unfinished to me...
Example of a matte black wrap

Satin black wrap...


Neither of these cars looks unfinished to me...
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 3,001
Likes: 62
From: Salt Lake City, Utah
Car: 1988 camaro "SS"/ 1991 305/T5
Engine: 383 LT1 in progress/LT1TBI 355 soon
Transmission: Probuilt 700R4 3600 stall/ T5
Axle/Gears: Moser axles, 3.42 Eaton Posi
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Basically its a vinyl film similar to what is used to do Clear Bra applications.. designed for automotive application. I think the stuff started with sign companys, and has moved into high end vehicles because you change the appearance of the vehicle without actually altering the paint...
Example of a matte black wrap

Satin black wrap...


Neither of these cars looks unfinished to me...
Example of a matte black wrap

Satin black wrap...


Neither of these cars looks unfinished to me...

COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
I REALLY want to do this with my 91 Z28. I want to throw in some satin or matte red Grand Sport stripes to throw a touch of color to it though. I'd also like to do this to my 88 but in a gunmetal or a machine grey finish with the stripes that it has now. I think it would look sick as hell.
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
NO! This is placed over the exsisting paint/clear coat. Kinda like wrapping paper at Christmas.... You wrap and box... You get done still looks like a box, but just better on the outside, and easier than painting the box!
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (9)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 898
Likes: 0
From: CT
Car: 1989 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 LS
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
I honestly love the yellow as well. A nice canary yellow would be great with 2 black stripes or pin stripes. nothing over whelming but like how the new camaros are with their black stripes and yellow paint is just great! with the c6 wheels to follow on my would make it stand out alot more! 

Thread Starter
Senior Member
iTrader: (9)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 898
Likes: 0
From: CT
Car: 1989 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 LS
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Most people would think that but in my opinion I think the colors is great. I'm completely confident about my manhood and see no reason why yellow wouldn't be great. Plus you got bumblebee man!
Just my opinion, its like how some people would rather want a white car vs black car, its all your personal preference
Just my opinion, its like how some people would rather want a white car vs black car, its all your personal preference Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Most people would think that but in my opinion I think the colors is great. I'm completely confident about my manhood and see no reason why yellow wouldn't be great. Plus you got bumblebee man!
Just my opinion, its like how some people would rather want a white car vs black car, its all your personal preference
Just my opinion, its like how some people would rather want a white car vs black car, its all your personal preference
Yeah, I think yellow is a nice sunny color. Reminds me of daffodils in the spring. Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 1,062
Likes: 1
From: Arizona
Car: 1989 Camaro RS--
Engine: MPFI
Transmission: 700r4
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
They have been advertising on TV for a while now, its to protects your new painted car. Some car companies when selling new car ask if you want it as a option for protecting your paint. It is suppose to work great against road rocks, and bugs, and tare, and any other grime from the street. Cleans up nice like paint. If I ever get my car painted, I will definitely want to use it!
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 80
Likes: 0
From: Strawn, IL
Car: 89 RS
Engine: 305... for now.
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Go with gloss. Gloss looks absolutely beautiful when it is washed and waxed. Matte looks dirty all the time. mine is matte more by mistake than design but I am planning on gloss next time. I do love the looks of a freshly painted matte black thirdgen but it gets tiring after a month.
And yellow thirgens are cool too.
And yellow thirgens are cool too.
Supreme Member
iTrader: (5)
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,127
Likes: 1
From: Paradise, Hawaii
Car: Too many cars
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
My Z28 will be gloss black with Matte or Satin black aniversary stripes, going with sunset metallic ornga on the formula with with the same type of black for original decals.
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Love SOM... I painted my old mini truck with som tribal flames.
Got some good taste
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Satin stripes looked good on the new Camaros, but I'm not sure if they would look good, or as good on third gens. I like antiquated looking cars. How about a black IROC? I have considered striping it, but I don't know what would look good. I thought about gold racing stripes, but I don't want it to look too gaudy. Maybe that shrink wrap stuff would look good. Any suggestions?
Supreme Member
iTrader: (5)
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,127
Likes: 1
From: Paradise, Hawaii
Car: Too many cars
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Lol thanx.....well now if i use the viynl wrap for the stripes, i can always take them off if i dont like them.
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
COTM Editor
iTrader: (11)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 4,098
Likes: 13
From: WINDSOR, CO
Car: 91 Z28, 87 SC, 90 IROC, 92 RS
Engine: LS1, 305 TPI, L98, NADA
Transmission: T56, 700r4's, and NADA
Axle/Gears: 3.89, 3.42, 3.23, NADA
Re: Matte Vs Gloss

They can last for years. The stuff get better and better each year and has the ability to last as long as some people's paint will even last... BUT can be peeled right back off if you don't like it or wanna change it again... GOLD VINYL stripes.........
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI
Re: Matte Vs Gloss
Ok, where can I get some? And, can they be custom made? A template perhaps. Like the heritage stripes, only made to go around the louvers.
Supreme Member
iTrader: (1)
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,697
Likes: 2
From: Michigan
Car: 86 IROC Z, 92 RS
Engine: 305 4bbl, 305 TBI




