[Tommy R]

Hey you all,

I'm looking for information on 4th Gen F-bodies. Specifically, I'm interested in the diff options, gearing differences (rear end and tranny), 1LE vs. base model specs, and any other differences from model year to model year.

For example, I know the '93s are speed density, not mass air. Are there any differences there from a performance or maintenance standpoint? The '93s also had a slightly different T-56 tranny, as I understand it. Were '93 and '94 models not available with 3.42 rear gears? Would a 150 mph speedo indicate that the car has 3.42's? No governor? I remember my old roommate's '94 T/A didn't have the "GT" package and as a result had the 115mph speedo, governor, and maybe even 3.23 gears (instead of 3.42s).

I know in '96 they went OBD-II with dual cats. They're also rated at an insignificant 10 hp more than the '93-'95 models. Of course, in '98 the LS1 came out with much more power. However, the LT1s are obviously still very compeitive in F-Stock, despite the power deficit, iron block, and smaller front brakes. Any particular reason for this? Or are the right people just not running LS1's? (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

So, needless to say, I'm intersted in LT1 vs. LS1 differences, too. But, I'll likely stay with the cheaper candidate, i.e. the LT1.

I should point out that I'd mainly be interested in F-Stock, so update/backdate concerns are of less importance. I'm not sure if/when I'd move to ESP.

Thanks in advance,
Tommy

[LT4Firehawk]

Here's a list of weights I compiled a while back for a post on another board, from lightest to heaviest:
Z06: 3116lbs
C5 coupe: 3218lbs
C5 Vert: 3245lbs
C4 Coupe: 3298lbs
LT1 Formula: 3311lbs
LT1 TA: 3345lbs
LT1 Z28: 3373
C4 Vert: 3360lbs
LS1 Z28: 3439lbs
LS1 Formula: 3455lbs
LS1 TA: 3477lbs
LT1 Formula Vert: 3489lbs
LS1 Z28 Vert: 3574lbs
LT1 Z28 Vert: 3591lbs
LS1 TA Vert: 3605lbs
LT1 TA Vert: 3610lbs

I believe these are the lightest weights for each model with no options and the earliest year the car was available (some options become standard equipment over the model run). From looking at this a stripper LT1 Formula is the lightest of all the f-bodies, followed closely by the TA and Z28. What's really interesting to note is that the LT1 Formula is only 13lbs heavier than a C4 coupe (of course, the Vette has a much lower cg).

Anyway, I really wouldn't worry much about whether it's a Formula, TA or Z28. Just find the best one for the money. If you can get a good deal on the TA, it would be a great car. Personally I wouldn't settle for anything other than a hardtop due to the extra chasis flex on the t-top cars. I've had the oppurtunity to do a good bit of driving in both t-top and hardtop f-bodies on roadcourse, and there is definitely a difference in stiffness.