OK. I was previously the happy owner of an '86 Iroc w/ a 305 (with carb) 5 spd and Borla kit that I stupidly decided to sell the car for $3500.00 because I had no more driveway room for toys. Should have parked 'em in the grass in retrospect. Anyway, I still regret selling the car after almost 2 years, especially since I ocasionally see it around town, and now want another reliable tooling around car again.

I love the looks and moderate performance of the 3rd gens with 305's(face it, the stock 305 is no screamer, but these cars handle and brake like nobody's business)and my question is this. Can anyone who owns or owned a '91 or '92 Z-28 comment on their experience with it?

I saw in the used car guides at the grocery store mag rack that they recommend avoiding the '92's and later years such as '95 to '98 for reliability etc, but give no other reasons etc.

I like these years because of the rear spoiler, the hood, and the updated dash cluster with colored background and dials etc.

It has long been my opinion that the last year of any model year is always the best because they generally have the problems figured out. I know this was the case with my '94 Blazer.

I have the chance to pick up a '92 Z-28 with only 17,000 miles, 305 5 sp, cloth, most power options for around $7500 or so cash deal. Is this the going rate, I haven't seen the car yet but was told no repaint or accidents, garage kept, perfect body etc.

The dealer has it advertised well over book for $10,995.00. I checked average retail at kbb.com. I hate to deal with a dealer, but so few of these cars in decent or near mint shape are ever advertised/available.

I would appreciate any responses short or detailed with your opinions and experiences with similar cars pro or con. Thanks in advance and sorry for the long read.

I also currently own a '79 Special Edition T/A with the 6.6 4 sp WS6 and some Buick GS's.

 

Well I personally own a '91 Z with the 350 TPI and pretty much love my car. It's had it's problems and still has some other minor problems, but unless it ever gets totaled or stolen or some other act of God takes it from me, it's here to stay. I've done alot of work on it, most recently, and have become alot more familiar with it because of it, but in my opinion, if you don't buy that '92 with only 17k on it, I think you'd be passing up one hell of a deal. It may come down to the point one day that you're not happy with it and want to try something else, but that's what they have "for sale" signs for. If it's not gonna hinder you financially, I'd say do it...

KAM

 

The only prob with my 305 TPI 5-spd is that I had to replace the fuel pump. I understand this is pretty common, so not to much to complain about. I say go for it.

Jeremy

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92 Z conv
5-spd B&M
alston SFC, few mods, some free, some not

 

My 1991 Z28



Its a 305 TPI automatic, power everything and t-tops. As with thunderstick, this car is mine forever. I've done all the usual mods, and it moves for what it is, but a 350 is in the works.

I don't know who told you these cars can brake like nobody's business, but they lied. I think thirdgens have some of the worst brake fade out of any production vehicle, be it 4 wheel disc J65 or otherwise. The only good brakes to come out of the factory on these cars were 1LE's, which I am upgrading to in a few weeks.

People will say these cars aren't reliable, but no car is reliable if you don't take care of it. My Z has 141K miles on the ODO, and it runs like a champ and hasn't left me stranded. I think the 91-92 Z's are some of the best looking thirdgens also, but of course I do, I own one. If you're looking for a project, don't worry about engine/drivetrain because it will have to be addressed anyway, but if you want a stout performer out of the box, jump on a 92 L98/auto. Also look for G92 in the RPOs for that 92 you mentioned. If you have G92, grab that car its somewhat rare. Good luck.

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-Jason M. 1991 Camaro Z28
"Its Blue."

 

Well one thing is for sure, you dont have to worry about getting the one really messed up one that GM produced. I own it. Even though I get all the problems they are easy to tackle. I love the TPI set up. I have a 91 305 converted to a 5 speed and wouldnt trade her for the world!!! but thats just me.

 

I haven't heard too many realiablity problems on the 93 and up cars as long as they are driven half way normal. However, if you drive the **** out of everything they will break. The 92 cars are the same as the 91 in almost every area. Go for the 305 5 speed, it will be reasonably quick and with a few mods 13's are very possible. High 13's but still not too bad for a 305.

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TPI 305,
Gutted airboxes,
gutted MAF,
K&N filters,
Corvette Servo.
14.9@93mph

"Speed kills, wanna live forever, drive a Ford."

 

My 1992 Z28 convt 5spd has 39K on and has given me no problems, ever! 92 convertibles are better then 91 due to increase strenghtening in the chassis and better rear seat belt placement. Get a 92, it's newer than a 91 (obvious) and it's a 25th anniversary car. I feel 91/92's were very dependable if taken care of. My 92 ran a best of 14.21@96mph with alum driveshaft,ported intake, plenum and runners and a hollow cat and Dynomax cat back. That was with a Centerforce clutch and 3:08 gears, stock Eagle GA tires.

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Rob P
89RSconvtZZ4TPI
92Z28convt5spd
71Impala convt 402BB
BETTER DRIVING THRU SUPERIOR HORSEPOWER!