Just for grins...

[Bandit]

Since we have a faithful representation of both 1st and 2nd generation GM F-bodies here, and obviously either can be made to work well, I still have to wonder...

Which one is the better value, bang for buck, for a pro touring buildup? Or is it six of one, half a dozen of the other? There are about a bazillion great aftermarket parts out there for both body styles, but does one chassis/body style have a decided advantage over the other?

Let's say you have a buddy who has a bead on two separate camaros, a 1st and a 2nd gen, but is limited by a set budget as to what he can spend on parts. He is undecided because he appreciates both body styles equally. So he decides to do his homework and weigh out the potential performance value of each as the basis for his purchase. Which F-body will he choose? And why?

Let the bench racing begin!

Paul

[nancejd]

I think it depends, the first gen will be worth more in the end (all else being equal). There are tons of parts for first gens too, especially if it's a '69. On the other hand, the second gen is probably a better starting point for being on a budget. The wheel wells are bigger to begin with and the front supsension starts off better stock to stock.

[mpozzi]

Second gen F-body but an early one as that's what I own. Guess I'm biased . . .

Now my other half will lobby for first gen Camaros . . .

Seriously, either would be a good candidate for P-T mods but look at weight first. My '73 is a heavyweight at a tick over 3500# but the car has a full interior and roll bar. Stripped and gutted would probably lighten the load by a few hundred pounds.

I think the early Camaro's are lighter right out of the box. I also think the weight balance (front/rear) is better too. My '73 is 52/48 if I remember correctly from the last time we cornerweighted it.

Both can be made to handle and brake great, plus have good availability for aftermarket go-fast and stop good systems.

As far as price goes, the first gens have just gone through the roof and buying one will cost you plenty. Sure, you can find a '67-'68 at a reasonable price but the restoration will eat up any "deal" you thought you were getting. Even the roaches we see in back yards, fields, and salvage yards are commanding premium prices. For a P-T candidate, look for a six-cylinder car that can be converted as it won't cost as much initially. As far as buying a '69 cheaply . . .

For the early second gen F-bodies, they're the next to see high prices. Get one now or soon. The later second gens aren't seeing the higher prices yet and those can be had fairly cheaply (in comparison to the earlier model Camaro/Firebirds).

I guess what I'm trying to say is either is good for what you want to do. Go with what you like instead of what's trendy (unless you're on the same fence as the trend). Enjoy your car and have fun with both the building and the driving.

Mary Pozzi

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

anyone know what a first gen weighs?

[BA.]

My 69 weighed 3480lbs with me in it (135 at the time) a smallblock 327 and a seabag of military clothes at around, what, 60-70lbs?


PS. this was at an interstate semi-truck weighing station. ...I was bored.