Camaro vs. Camaro - Which Generation Would You Build?

[HotRodKush]

Looks aside, given your choice of a second or third gen Camaro, which would you choose as the best platform to build a pro-touring car? Which generation is more capable, given the current selection of aftermarket suspension upgrades available for each?

[wmhjr]

I'm thinking 2nd Gen provides more options, but it's been a while since I had an F-body.

[novaderrik]

the third gen would be the way to go from a purely performance standpoint, but the very early (70-73)and very late (77-81) second gens from a styling standpoint.

[HotRodKush]

Thanks for the replies - I had an '84 third gen years ago and loved it but always had a soft spot for the look of the second gens. I'm looking to build a nice well-rounded AutoX and road racing car that will also be tolerable on the street. "Tolerable" to me means that it can clear speed bumps and not crack a rim on the occasional pothole. I would love to use a second gen but I'm hesitant because I'm not familiar with the extent to which you can modify the suspension for that purpose compared to the third gens.

[Jim Nilsen]

If you are basically going to redo the whole suspension to a purpose built car it really doesn't matter which one you get as far as handling will be. The big factor is the aerodynamics of the 3rd gen and what can be done compared to the 2nd gen. If you plan on doing high speed events it is something to consider.

For resale value I would go with the 2nd gen since they will go up in price a lot faster.

I miss my 73 RS sometimes but not as much as the 89 for the way they sat for stance.

[79T/Aman]

from a rigidity standpoint the second gen has a better shell, the 3rd gens are ok at the front but the frame rails are not as good so it's about a wash but the rear of the 3rd gen is not as good picture the car without the rear hatch and god forbid T-tops and it may as well be a convertible, the suspension of the 3rd gen will need just as much attention as well

[vintageracer]

Do a third gen with a blower and 33's in the back. Nick will love and it's sure the make the front cover of Camaro Performers Magazine!

[wendell]

A third gen in AS trim will put it on any other generation. No two ways about it.

[cheapthrillz]

I would spring for the 3rd gen and plan on running a well setup cage. If it is built on a budget, the third gen should be a few steps ahead of the second gen handling wise...

[BonzoHansen]

^^with a hardtop and lexan back window, and an aftermarket rear.

You really can build a light 3rd gen easy

[StanIROCZ]

If you are basically going to redo the whole suspension to a purpose built car it really doesn't matter which one you get as far as handling will be. The big factor is the aerodynamics of the 3rd gen and what can be done compared to the 2nd gen. If you plan on doing high speed events it is something to consider.

For resale value I would go with the 2nd gen since they will go up in price a lot faster.

I miss my 73 RS sometimes but not as much as the 89 for the way they sat for stance.
I think Jim hit the nail on the head here. It depends how crazy you want to go with it. The thirdgen will handle better out of the box, and with a few bolt ons such as koni's, panhard, allignment, springs, it gets good really quick. I'd think the 2nd gen would need a lot more work to be as good.

Info on my car here: www.f-bodysport.com (http://www.f-bodysport.com) but I've gone off the deep end a bit.

[silver69camaro]

I wouldn't do a third gen because of the strut suspension and huge front overhang. The third gen's wheelbase is a whopping 7" shorter, yet the overall length is 2-3" longer. All that weight needs to be between the front and rear wheels, not hanging out in front!

[BonzoHansen]

Matt, woud you mind elaborating on your thoughts regarding the strut suspension?

[killer67]

If you have money to spend 1st gen is the nicest design IMHO but need the most geometry work and money to compete with the Gen 5