What can you tell me about the mid 80's Trans Am?

Question

Are these good cars if well maintained? Problem areas? Comfort level? Driving feel? Ride? Are there other model years that are superior to the 86? Other cars similar to the Trans Am that you would suggest? Car would be used for a weekend car for short trips, errands. Thanks!

Answer 1

I have had 3 80's Trans Am's and I can tell you they do require maintenance more often than normal vehicles. The 1982 model has a 350 transmission, which means no overdrive. 1982-1984 had optional functional cowl induction hoods with 4 wheel disc brakes as part of the WS6 package.

Stay away from anything other than a V8 and as stated, the horsepower on the 305 motors tops at around 200. There was a 350 available for a few of the later years and the Mother of all late model Trans Am's, the 1989 White Turbo Pace Car Trans Am which featured the defunct Grand National engine. (3.8 Turbo V6).

Similar vehicles are the sister car, the Camaro, which has many of the similar options, however no 1989 turbo version. If you need a bench in the back, you can look for a mid 80's Monte Carlo SS. They had a 180 HP 305 V8 with a 3.73 rear end gear. If your looking to save gas, you can search for a mid 80's Dodge Daytona Turbo (Z). They had a 2.2L or 2.5L 4 cyl with a Turbo Charger. They have excellent mid-range power that can easily rival any V8 of it's era. You will want to closely inspect the car because if the Turbo bearings are bad, it can be costly to repair.

If the car has been properly maintained, then you can certainly take one for a lengthy trip, or just running around town. Good luck and I hope this helps.

Answer 2

They are fine autos and easy to park. BEst of all, they have struts.

Answer 3

If I recollect correctly they were slow, heavy, couldn't handle well, and bad on gas. The V8s in those barely put out 200 HP.

Answer 4

Chad D left out one thing RATTLE TRAPS