Handling isn't judged by the skid pad or firmness.

Skidpad numbers are worthless, most IRS cars hit great skid pad numbers but thats only because the rear wheels can piviot and level out rather than stay on edge like solid axle cars.

A 3rd gen may ride harder in corners but a forth gen will hold the road better. Most of the blame for a low skid pad number is the tires GS-C's and RS-A's suck compared to the old VR and ZR (Gatorback)

 

Third's do handle better its true. I've been in both and I can say that from experience, even my friend with a 35th SS agrees that Third's and his 84 handle better. Any autocrosser in this class that knows his stuff will tell you this. Check out some SCCA results BTW. IROC-Z's are capable of .92 G's, 4th's are not. Third's are lighter, lower, use bigger sway bars, have a no compromise ride, and a better suspension setup for incredible handling, and great capabilities because mod for mod they will be better also. The 4th's are setup to be more compliant. Throwing out struts, adding shocks to the front and double a-arms are good for ride quality, but not for handling. Third's just feel better to drive with, more sharp, tighter, stable, and connected. Note that on Chevrolet.com's Camaro history, the only car of all the Gen's and years that is noted for its handling and G rating is the IROC-Z28.

 

In 4th gens newer = smoother ride

The 93-97 handle better and ride harder than all 98+