I'm looking into getting a 1989 Camaro RS, since my Z28 seems to be down for a while. The owner is asking $1,300 for it, and my uncle seems to think it's too much. The owner says it runs and drives great and that the only problem is that the clear coat on the paint is peeling a bit. I'm not sure if it's a V6 or V8 yet, and I'm guessing it'd have 180k miles on it, just to be safe. What do you think the car is worth? KBB rates the car at much more, around $1,400 with problems. Is that right, or is it actually worth less? I'm not sure what I should pay for it.

Just to keep it tech...
What are the common problems found when trying to buy a thirdgen?

 

First I would find out if it's a V8 or a 6. 180k miles is quite a bit, if maintenance hasn't been maintained then you might be looking at an engine rebuild or tranny rebuild.

 

I have a feeling it's a 6, just because I'm "lucky" like that. I don't care though, just means better gas mileage and lower insurance if it is one. Let's just say maintainance has been done. What do you think it's worth?

 

Too many variables...it could drive and run nice, but have a completely trashed interior...could also have rust...could be dented from wrecks or hail storms..etc.

Best to take a look at it first, then decide what needs fix'en.

 

I live in Northern Indiana... and most '89s that haven't been repainted are rusted. Just to give you an idea, I bought a TBI V8 with a well-maintained 120k for $1,000 earlier this week. The $1300 or so doesn't sound too bad, especially if there's no rust! Mine has some issues up around the top of the windshield, as well as rust on both doors, and a sizable dent on the driver's front quarter..

Interior was in decent shape (nice seats and carpet but a sagging headliner and no stereo)... oh yeah, I got the woodgrain interior, which I personally enjoy.

If you check the car out, have the opportunity to thrash it a couple of times and it holds up, I don't think you'd be payin too much... if it's a v8 anyway.

I think your 'common problems' post was looking for some suggestions on things to look for... in my limited experience I'd say check out all the fluid levels, make sure all the vacuum lines and electrical connections are in place a/o operational, check interior switches, gauges, heater, defrost, etc.. Personally I always like to see what the person's air filter looks like, if it's black you know it's not too well maintained right?

I would just say you shouldn't be too afraid to abuse the car a little to make sure it checks out. Test drive it hard, make sure it's not running too hot, blah de blah, and I would advise shutting it down, then turning it right back on. Maybe repeat that.. Then maybe let it sit a while to see if it overheats that way...

You can avoid a bad car if you just run through the gamut of all the moving pieces )

Just some of the problems I've had,

James

 

I bought my 89 RS 305 for $2200 with 190,000 + miles on it. It Runs great but has a starting issue (as most of you know ) But I would have never bought this car if I didnt plan on it being my hobby car. So I wouldnt recommend buying it V6 or V8 unless you have the time and money........Because it will suck all of it out of you............Most of us Know!!!!

 

In what ways will it suck the money out of me? The only problem that the Z28 (the 84) gave me was that the transmission's 3-4 clutches got toasted and the engine wasn't maintained well. This is due to the idiot who owned it before me, and myself being an idiot about cars and not knowing how to check for things like that. What kind of gas mileage does your RS get? The Z28 got a horrible 10 to 12. What kinds of things would I need to get for the RS to improve it (the "money sucking" things you were talking about)?

 

Anyone else?

 

and myself being an idiot about cars and not knowing how to check for things like that.

Thats what I mean!!! Im the same way. Im learning but I still cant diagnose anything without spending cash trying things out!! It sucks. Yesterday I spent 150 dollars and spent 6 hours under my car fixing what I thought was heat soak.........But no such luck! Anyways If you want the car get it!.............I get roughly 15-18 in town and an unbelievable 30+ on the interstate. My 5 speed helps.
Money Sucking things (if you want power)
Start with any machine work
or getting new heads
cam
intake
headers
and various little things.
I have spent so much money on one problem but It is the only problem I have......So when its fixed I should be good to go. But you may have good luck with your car. So if you like it get it. Just remember its an older car and that can sometimes mean $$$$$