One of my buddies is looking at a 89GTA I know a good amount about LS1 f-bodies but not too much about the GTA what kind of engine comes in these cars and how much horse do they put out stock. He may want a new engine what would be a good replacement for it and what would be the cost. Thanks for any help

 

I believe the GTAs were all SBC 350s which in '89 were around 240 hp stock and 340 ftlb or so torque. It may have the 305 which is slightly less hp (210-230, as long as it is still port injection). At any rate, the 350 is a pretty good engine and you would probably get the best results hp/$ from modifying it instead of upgrading to a newer engine (LT1/LS1). There are plenty of aftermarket parts for these engines. I would personally start with exhaust upgrades and a new intake manifold/runners. I hope this helps.

 

Have him check the Vin for the engine installed at the factory. It seems all 305TPI turn into 350TPI's when they are being sold. Check the tech pages at www.thirdgen.org for additional info.

 

You can probably find the answers to every question you have (and then some) at the GTA Source Page.

Hope this helps.

 

http://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/tech/techdb.shtml

All the HP/TQ and gearing answers you want.

 

Haha, you are so right about this. The hard part is distinguishing between a 305 and 350 TPI, I'm sure alot of people have fallen prey to that game before. Unfortunately,not everyone can decode a VIN number I guess.

 

When you are going to buy a car do your research. Its Not Rocket Science to decode a Vin number. Thats why all those 305TPI's are now 350TPI's because the sellers can get away with it, due to dumb buyes.

 

If he wants to go fast,even with the L98 the GTA will need to be put on a diet.
The GTA was the heaviest 3rd gen ever built.

 

Im not sure if it matters or not but isnt the 305's oil filler cap on the front of the valve cover rather than the back like the 350? maybe i am wrong i havent looked at many 305's but i think there are visual differences that easily identify it if you dont have the vin code anyway.

 

You can not tell the difference between a 305 TPI and 350 TPI by opening the hood and looking at them. The BS that this different or that is at this location means nothing. Why do you think its so easy to pass off a 305 as a 350 TPI.