I know that this has probably been talked to death but the search function wasn't working for me.
I have been looking for something fun to drive. So far I have been looking at 2g DSMs, 3000gt VR-4, 2000+ Z28/SS Camaros, Z32 300zx's, GT Mustangs and several other things. I want a fairly reliable car. I would probably not do much, if any, modifications.
The camaro fell into favor because I think it looks great, it has a geat engine(ls1) and you can get a 6-speed.
so here are my questions:

Are they reliable in their stock form?

What should I look out for when buying a used one?

Are there any problems that most people have (transmission issues, early wear in interior, etc.)?

My budget is set at about 15K and I have seen several Camaro SS/Z28s in that price range, but they have fairly high mileage, is this car fine with high mileage(I know it varies heavily with maintaince, but generally will they withstand relatively high miles)?

Is it worth it to spend the little extra money to get an SS, are they a lot better than normal z28s?

I will be driving it in the snow, with snow tires. Will traction control be a good thing to look for, and what models was it offered on?

Is there anything special maintaince wise with the T-Tops or are they just like a normal roof?

Any other help/tips would be much appreciated.

P.S. I'm past all the stupid dangerous street racing type things. I just want a car with plenty of power, good looks, and lots of torque, it will be my daily driver.
Thanks

 

A stock LS1 is definetley a reliable car. A 6 speed would make for good MPG numbers on the interstate. Out of all the cars you listed, an LS1 would be by far the best choice. Faster, more reliable, and probably gets better mileage. A 3000 GT will kill you when you need to fix something (mainly that 5 speed that will blow up on ya), DSM cars like to break drivetrains, and we all love Ford right? Can't say anything about the 300Z, I have no clue

In all honesty, the only reason to buy an SS over a Z28 is either because you want an SS for status, or for the appearance (hood, spoiler, rims). Stock vs stock they will perform the same. Take a stock Z28 vs a stock SS, and after that race go ahead and switch drivers. The other car will win this time around. Most Z28 owners will tell you this, and most SS owners will say we were too poor to buy an SS, so we are making up excuses. Well, screw 'em. I could have purchased a C5 'Vette if I had wanted, but I got my Z28 for a reason. Hopefully this won't turn into yet another Z28 vs SS argument though An SS will sell for more money down the road however

I honestly would avoid traction control. I've heard more stories about it hurting than helping. Knowing how to control your car will be better than traction control, IMO

As in most cars, just look over the basics first. You'll probaly run into piston slap, but most all LS1s have that anyway. It won't be anything new

And one last thing...even if you plan on keeping the car stock, if you get a 6 speed, remove that CAGS (computer aided gear selecter? I think that's it). There is nothing more annoying than driving with CAGS enabled and going from 1st to 4th at like 15 mph or so You'll be very glad you did

 

Thanks for the quick reply
Yeah i have driven only one car with TCS and it didn't do much when I was stuck in snow, it just bogged the engine and wouldn't go anywhere.
What does piston slap sound like, and is it harmful?
I have another question, what models came with a limited slip?
thanks for helping me out

 

Piston slap is clacking you might hear when the engine is cold as the engine warms the pistons will expand in the cyliders and it goes away, not really a big deal. Traction control can be helpful in ice and snow, but it really depends on the individual, some like it some don't. All Z28 and SS cars came with posi rear ends.

 

for the buck you are better with a Z28. I own an LS1 SS and its just as fast as the Z28's I drove before it. I was sold on the SS appearance mods though.
SS and Z28 are virtually the same peformance, I've seen stock Z's rock an SS and I've seen SS' smoke Z's. stock to stock if you are driving it everyday go with the Z28. Cause you can find 'em cheaper in most cases. (atleast my area)

things to look out for
power windows (GM power window motors suck)
third gear "kicking you out" sign of possible synchro issues
there are some different things, search google for technical service bulletins, these will warn you of odd problems that have become more common.

 

If it has an LS1, it will be a two tire fire (all LS1 cars have limited slip)

 

so do we have posi or limited slip?

 

they are the same thing, just a different name