I was wondering what they run, especially compared to the 6 speed LT1's. Looking into a 4th gen for my next car, I really want an LS1 but may have to settle for an LT1 for now. I would much rather have a 6 speed...but I found some good deals on autos. Are they good cars to mod? Would it be a good idea to put a shift kit in it, or a B&M megashifter?? Are the auto's strong runners, and how do they match up against the L98 3rd gens? Thanks.

James

 

That depends,

A4/2.73 cars run mid 14's

A4/3.32 cars run low/mid 14's

M6/3.42 cars run low 14's...high 13's with a very good driver.

The absolute best mod you can do for an auto car is a torque converter. They are expensive (around $700) but will get you probably .4 off your ET. If you are looking at an auto car, I'd make sure that it has 3.23 gears. Any dealer will be able to print out a build sheet for you. Look for the "performance axle" option.

LT1 cars can be very fast. They respond very well to mods. The times I gave are average stock times...some cars are faster, some slower. A bad driver on the 6 speed car means worse performance than the auto in general.

Hope this helps
Doug

 

Thanks for the help...is there any way to tell by the VIN # what gears it has?? I would prefer a 6 speed car....but I seem to find better deals on the autos. It is a hardtop as well...even though I would rather have t-tops. But I would have to learn how to drive a manual car...Im only 17 and have only driven autos unfortunately. But I would probably be better off with an auto in the NY traffic anyways. I want a TA but will settle for a formula...and this car is right in the area....so I will go take a look at it. Thanks.

James

 

Nope, the VIN won't tell what gears you have, just the engine. Also, take a look at the insurance rates for a fourth gen LT1 car before you get too excited. You can make an L98 thirdgen just as fast (some are just as fast) but the insurance is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper. If i had, say, a '95 Z28 my insurance would be more than what it is for both my rides combined, abeit i'm not 17 but you get the idea......

 

When I was looking at cars (I looked at many) I got the dealers to print me up a build sheet. They CAN get one from the VIN. If they tell you they can not, they are being lazy and dont want to look it up on their computer. (this happened to me a few times)

But definetly check your insurance rates out! I am 20 and when I got the '98 the insurance bill almost made me **** a brick.

-Doug