Question about the 3.4 vs 3.8
 

This summer Im getting a v6 4th gen. I need a daily driver and I want a 4th gen soo... How much faster are the 3.8s than the 3,.4s? Im getting a 5 speed either way.

I saw RKSport v6 headers which I will probably get. Also will a normal catback system work with some fabbing?

3.4 stock 1/4 = high 16
3.8 stock 1/4 = mid/high 15 depending on gears

Catbacks made for Z28s and 4th gen v6's will both fit your car that you will get.

Rksport headers supposedly have a bad leaking problem, and need a lot of welding to be sealed.

Also, 3.4 - more low end and 3.8 - more high end.

I have a 3.4 and its slow, nuff said.:o :p

thats pretty good...

and as for catbacks.. a stock z28 catback has a 2.75in. I-pipe, sotck v6 has a 2.25 in. I-pipe so its a decent improvement.

Just a little info on the Rk headers. What was said earlier is correct about the leaking problem. The way to solve that is to simply re-tighten the bolts after around 100 miles or so after installing them. That way they can't warp on you. Apparently the headers don't have sufficient flange in order to seal on the exhaust manifold. If you don't mind waiting for headers on backorder, I would recommend looking into getting the Pacesetter headers. I ordered mine early November and I just called this past Tuesday and was informed that they should be coming in and shipped out next Thursday. I have my fingers crossed. I've heard a lot of good things about the Pacesetter headers.
I'm sure the Rk ones are decent as well, but if you install them correctly, use the necessary gaskets, and re-torque the bolts often you shouldn't have a problem.

BTW...go with a 3.8. I'm sure you'd be a lot happier with it in the end rather than a 3.4 It seems that most 3.4 owners wish they had a 3.8. I dunno...maybe it's just me??;)

well 1 second difference isnt that bad. I would rather have the 3.8 BUT it depends on my money situation. I want to get a car as soon as possible. My 88 doesnt have AC, idles rough, drinks gas, and i need a daily driver.

where can i find the pacesetters headers?

I did have the lo3 in my car....so I bet the 3.4 is as fast or faster than that. The lo3 is a 170hp 305 it was lame especially with the rear i have. The lo3 was slightly modded but not much. With headers, intake, k&n would a 3.4 car be in the mid 15s?? also what if you did these mods on a 3.8? would it be in the 14s?

I have driven a 96 bird with the 3.8 SLP package...seemed like it was good down low but i thought top end SUCKED. but im comparing it to my car....350+carb+2.73=150mph id say.

I don't wish I had a 3.8, I wish I had an LS1.;) You will probably want to go with the 3.8 but the 3.4 isn't that bad. 3.4's also sound a lot better too.

I also think 3.4s sound better. Mine sounds like a 8 cylinder when on camera :)

Id rather have the 40hp bonus you get with the 3.8. Im not getting this car to make it fast or anything but I wouldnt mind a toy I can mod just alittle. Not gonna do anything that will sacrafice drivability. so bolt on only. My 88 gets the real mods :D

do any companys make cams or anything like that for these cars?

Yes companies make head/cam packages for both cars.Also check the car out before you buy it,some 3.8's can't get out of the 16's even with mods.Good luck either way and both are good cars.
Kevin

LO3's may not be HP monsters but they will still kil a 3.4, 170HP ans 255FtLbs vs 160HP and ?200FtLbs?


Most 3.4's run a very high 16 or a low 17

As for mods one second takes alot to make up for.

And if a set of headers has flange problems they belong in the garbage.

Get a 3.8......:)

Get a 95-97 3.8 :)

Get a 3.8, you'll be happier. I have a 3.4, my brother has a 3.8, and his feels faster than mine. It pulls much stronger up top as well. My 3.4 is stronger down low, but it's not a huge difference over the 3.8.

Just get the 3.8, man :)

Nuff said

get a 3.8, i am not sure about the #'s on the 3.4 but the 3.8's have 205hp, and 230lb ft torque, and thats more than the 3.4 i can tell u for sure. And as for track times, the best stock 3.8 i have seen is a 15.7 with a good driver. But why not just pay 8 to 10 grand for a used LT1, thats what i did and i think it was worth it............


Chris