QUIKAG

I saw an amazingly clean '97 LT1 Camaro six-speed with only 20,000 miles. Asking price is around $9k. Car has absolutely no flaws, definitely in as new condition.

So, would this make a decent daily driver? I like the low end torque of the LT1, it runs out of breath at the high end, but since it would be a daily driver, short-shifting it around town would probably be fun. Torque peak is at 2400rpm.

What do you guys think? Would it be better to get a higher mileage LS1 Camaro for the same price?

I would unload the Vibe GT if I got another DD. Should I just keep the Vibe?

Mr Payne

Well, the high end reliability of the LS1 is not really tested. You already have a beast. That sounds like a pretty damn good price on the LT1......and you could do a sweet FI setup if needed...

honda606

I'd personally go LS1 but that price on the LT1 is quite tempting.

I bet you could find a 98 or 99 for about $1-2k more with simliar mileage if you keep looking.

02SuzukaBluS2K

LS1..i had a 02 SS with 8,000 invested in it...should have never sold that car....

honda606

What did you end up getting after you had sold it?

What exactly did you have done to it for $8,000?

alexf20c

That LT1 is a steal at '$9k. Go for it. For me, if it were to be purely a daily driver, and not intended for any modding, I'd go with an LS1, but you can't pass up that low-mileage LT1 - especially a 6M/T.

If you were to mod it, though, I'd definitely stick with the LT1. Cast iron over aluminum any day, if you want to play with the "big boys."

BTW: Yes, I'd trade the Vibe in for the LT1 in a heartbeat.

kumar75150

put a turbo on that LT1

lots more hp available than there is for the LS1

dundonr

I don't know about that.. there are daily driven LS1's that are running high 8's lower 9's in the 1/4.. yes they are bored/stroked twin turbo 427's.. but

QUIKAG

Thanks for the info guys, I'll keep you all in the loop if the purchase ends up going through..

RobC2

I have owned an LT1 and two LS1s. A 95 Z28 M6, a 99 TA M6 and a 99 TA A4. I just a few points for you to consider. The LS1s make a lot more power than the LT1s, regardless of what they are rated at. My 95 made 275 hp at the rear wheels and it had intake, headers, exhaust, throttle body, MAF sensor, and a chip. My 99s both made over 310 at the wheels with an exhaust and intake lid. This is by no means scientific, but they were all measured on the same dyno, by the same operator. I think these results are typical. Also, the LT1s have little problems that you should check out before you buy one. They tend to leak oil from the rear of the intake manifold and the problem can continue to occur even after it has been fixed a few times. Also, the ignition system (optispark) isn't the best design, but the later ones are better than the earlier ones. They are vented to reduse condensation. If you get any water on the unit, it will be pretty much ruined, and it is located right under the water pump. All that being said, f-bodies are really fun cars and both have a ton of torque. CamaroZ28.com and LS1.com are good places to do more research. I hope this helps, and good luck with whatever you decide.