I'm looking at buying a camaro rs with the 3.8L V6. I test drove it and thought that it put out good power(throws head back in 1st and not as much in 2nd). Do these engines usually have good power? Are they even close to competing with 305/350's? And are they high quality engines, as far as maintenance/reliability?
thanx
Jeff

What year is it? Some may be able to tell from the engine spec, but I'm not so sharp on late models. 3.8L will never compare to a 350 unless you supercharge / turbocharge it. I can't say about reliability, but in general, late model motors will last a long time.

-dnult

He, He!!!

Search out a Buick Grand National site AND I bet you will find more Hp then you will ever need or want outta the little bent-6 motor!!! pdq67

I have a 96RS with the 3.8 auto. I've owned it since it was new. I have the Y87 performance package which included 3.42 posi, 4 wheel disk brakes and the z28 suspension. The 3.8 is rated at 200 hp with 225lbs. Gm uses this engine in many of their cars and is very reliable. I've never had a problem with mine. I think its a great engine. If you have the Y87 package you will definitely be able to keep up with or beat a 305. I've added a K&N FIPK and Borla exhaust and I've smoked a few mustang gt's. I have headers as well, but I haven't put them on yet. I can't weld and it will be at least a 6 hour job. Don't feel like spending $500 to have them put on right now. Also 30 mpg on the highway isn't bad either. There are a few mods for these engines, but more seem to be coming every year. Best thing about this car is it is pretty quick and the insurance is cheaper than the z28.


p.s. almost no parts will interchange with the Buick GN engines. The engine in the 4th gen camaro is a 3800 series 2.

DenRS, What should I look for to see if my RS has the Y87 performance package? I have a '97 RS with the 3.8L 3800 motor with the automatic transmission. I have disk brakes all the way around also. I have also noticed that both rear wheels will spin if you take off quickly. :D

Jeff2004, I like my 3.8 motor. We get 25MPG with ours and it has all the power I need for cruising. Went on a 300 mile road trip yesterday and drove about 70 miles today and loved it. Hehehe this little Cavalier thought he could out run me and tried passing me as we go onto the interstate. It was fun watching him get smaller and smaller in your rear view mirror. Oh, I did slow down so he could pass me and I waved at him!!
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