Hey, I am new here, so I will do my best to avoid seeming like an idiot...

Here's my situation...
I am the proud owner of a Black 1990 Camaro RS. I blew the motor several months ago. Since it was merely a tbi 350 mated to a t5 (which, I am told, is a fairly weak trans) anyway, I've decided to go for a new motor and transmission.
My goal for the car is 350 hp at the wheels, decent (better than stock) handling, and gear ratios and rear end that allow at least consistant 13s down the 1/4 mile, but maintain somewhere between 25-30 mpg.
Ideally, an LS1 6 speed setup would work for me perfectly. But I am more interested in hp/$ (which is why I like 3rd gens in the first place)
I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on any of this...

LT1: reverse flow cooling and optispark aside, I've heard these motors have decent hp/$ potential. I'm told that someone makes a coil pack conversion for them. Does anyone know how well the setup works or have any experience with it? A friend with a 96 formula was saying excessive low end torque made for difficulty launching without roasting tires unnecessarily. Also, any suggestions on effective bolt-ons to bring the hp up?

L98: any experience with building these up? How durable/reliable are these motors? I'm also under the impression that the 6 speeds in the LT1 and LS1 cars are different somehow, so advice as to what would be ideal/required for an L98/t56 combo is welcome.

True dual exhaust for 3rd gens: any thoughts?

Other random 3rd gen input is also greatly appreciated...

 

The LS1 would be the highest cost option of what you suggested, as far as what just getting the motor would cost. I think the savings with this motor would come from the fact that a good air intake, a good set of headers, and full exhaust would have you where you want to be with horsepower.

 

If you want the "cheap" way in terms of less stuff to change around, why not try a 383 swap-in and either swap to bigger TBI injectors or maybe even think of converting to TPI with it as well? If you get the heads worked on, you may see pretty good mpg's out of that setup.

Of course, "cheap" is relative. I am wondering what to do with the 3.4L in my car and GM crates and complete junkyard engines I get quoted are upwards of two gurrs (as in two grand), so you'll probably have to piece a 383 together and shop smart.

 

Handling isn't really a function of the engine, unless you're considering the LS1 into this as less weight.

Looking at your requirements, I would say you'd probably be happiest with an LS1. Although you could do it with an LT1, it would take a little more work to get 350 rwhp, and the 25-30 mpg is a little on the high side for that engine- with an LT1, that's good highway mileage right there. For me, 14 mpg is average around town- although it could be a few higher if you don't do much city driving.

Anyway, either engine is a good choice- intake & exhaust bolt-ons, especially headers, bring the power up the quickest. To sum it up, if money is the main concern, get an LT1. If you're looking for something that will meet your demands and then some regardless of price, get an LS1.

And BTW, with a 3rd gen and 350 rwhp, 12s in the 1/4 should be no problem. 4th gens (heavier) have run deep into the 12s with less power than that.

 

Thanks guys.

looks like it's the classic LS1 vs LT1 decision at this point... though that 383 idea isn't bad either, though I'm afraid I lack the experience to piece together a reliable powerplant...

It's nice to know that my 1/4 mile expectations won't be that hard to meet.

I think the deciding factor for me will be the coil pack conversion for the LT1, if I can find someone with experience in that area.

Any further LT1/LS1/3rd gen trivia is always welcome

 

Just do a carbed SBC. Dump the fuel injection and computer. SBC parts are cheaper then the LT1/LS1 by far and make good numbers. On a 3rd gen it is an ideal swap.

 

well, I realize that carbs are the best way to save money when dealing with this sort of situation, but unfortunately for my wallet, I'm set on fuel injection.