My goal right now is to buy a 87-92 Firebird Formula, Trans Am, or GTA that i can work to basically turn it into a weekend ride thats in really good shape, and runs in the 13's. I got a few questions that I would greatly appreciate feedback on.

Budget: $3500 and under.

Must have: 5.7 L98, no rust and a body in good shape.

Would like to have: Maui Blue (I know those are tough to find), T-tops, 5-speed man. trans.

Deal Breakers: Rust, Red Interior, anything smaller then a 5.7


Questions:
1. From what I understand, the did not build them with the L98 and a 5-speed. Is that true?

2. What effect does alot of power have on the T-tops? Iv heard stuff like you can twist the body because its weaker where the t-tops are and they will just leak forever. Even one guy told me if you really add a ton of power and put a good set of tires on it you can break a T-top from it twisting so bad launching....(that cant be true)

3. If i just bought the motor first and tore it down and built it with mods, which is one thing im considering, do i have to start changing computers when i do find the car? How hard is that?

4. Is there a difference in the 5.7's in the formula, trans am, and gta?

5. Whats the best mods to the L98 to get it in the 13's?




Any advise is greatly appreciated....

 

Well, a 5.7 with no rust and a nice interior is going to be hard to find for that price, my guess would be something your looking for would be in the price range of 5-8 thousand dollars, I dont believe many of the 5.7 L came with the 5 speed manual transmission, (but I may be wrong). However keep looking you never know when someone will be in a pinch and have to sell their nice thirdgen for a price closer to your $3500 good luck and let me know how your search turns up!

 

350s did not come with manual trannys from the factory, they may be a few freaks but you will have to find one thats been modified.