PatFitz9

*first post* Hi

so i am thinking of buying an SS. probably going to be 4th gen. I tried searching, but it isn't working for me. i am just wondering if there are any known problems that i should look out for. or basically any tips on buying an SS. how much am i looking at? i don't want to spend more than 15k (preferably 13ish), and all i am looking for with mods is an exhaust. basically i want low miles, and a car that will last for at least 3 years. is this going to happen? and a manual trans is a must. thanks for the help.

JakeRobb

I got my 2002 Z28 M6 (that's what we call the six-speed manual transmission) for $14,600 last summer with 50K miles on it and a catback installed. In general, an SS will sell for slightly more than a similarly-equipped Z28 of the same year.

Time for your education:

Are you aware that all Camaros and Firebirds from 1993-2002 are considered "4th gens"? You can get a decent LT1 SS (that's '93-97) for around half of your budget.

I'm thinking that you meant you wanted a 1998-2002 model, with the more powerful LS1 engine and the revised front end (round headlights). 98+ V8 Camaros can be had for around $8,000 and scale up past $20,000.

Are you aware that Z28s and SSes have the same engine? The SS package adds some emblems, wider tires on larger wheels, a different spoiler, and a hood scoop. The horsepower rating is higher, but the actual horsepower difference is negligible.

Here is a black '99 Z28 in your area. Go test drive it!

Good luck, and let us know if you have any more questions.

PatFitz9

hrmm i thought that the 98-02's were 4th gens. yeah, thats what i am looking for. i know that they have the same engines, but i just like the SS more. if i can't find anything in my price range, then i was going to look for a Z28. thing is, i don't want to put much $$$ into the car besides an exhaust. so i thats why i like the SS. it already looks good, and comes with bigger wheels.

thanks for the info though, keep it coming.

PatFitz9

oh, and i would like the miles to be around 50k... i really don't want to have any mechanical issues. i guess i am asking, how is the maintenance on these year camaros?

JakeRobb

As far as the manual transmission cars go, look for one with the optional Hurst shifter if you can find it, or one with an aftermarket shifter like the Pro 5.0. I'm not talking about the shift **** or the stick, but the actual shifter mechanism. The factory Hurst option is identifiable by the shifter with the big H imprinted in the leather. Looks like this:



You'll find that they are easier to shift and much more fun to drive than the factory standard shifter.

Not a deal breaker if you can't find one.

Here is another car to consider. A 2000 SS, and it looks like it has the Hurst shifter. It's up here in Michigan (near Detroit), but probably worth the drive. I'm sure someone on these boards who lives closer would be willing to give it a once-over for you.

JakeRobb

Maintenance, as always, is unpredictable. I have driven my car about 8,000 miles since I bought it without any problems at all. The previous owner never had any big issues either -- he took it in for a recall service once, and that's it. Earlier Camaros had issues with the power window motors, but this seems to have been resolved.

As far as high-horsepower cars go, Camaros are pretty efficient, but I'd still plan on spending a bit extra on gas. Tires, too.

There is tons of knowledge available about these cars, and parts are readily available and fairly cheap. So when/if something does go wrong, it's not the end of the world. There are tons of people that know every inch of the car, and many of them are on these boards and willing to help you if you have a question or concern.

I'm rambling. To sum up: Buy one! You won't regret it.

MyShibbyZ28

what he said.

PatFitz9

I just need to find one i like

2000slp2768

you can get them in that price range. I got mine for a little more than 13k. Just remember most people set their sale price high. The previous owner of mine was asking 15500 for it. Just dont low ball them because they wont be willing ot work with you.

2000GTP

Good post, sums it up nicely.