In this edition of Auction Dilemma, we’ll skip the occasional Ford versus Chevy matchup and focus on an all-GM F-body bout. Let’s check out a 1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 1LE at Hemmings and a 1990 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA on Cars & Bids.
1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 1LE
Debuting in 1982, the third-generation Camaro was growing stale as Japanese competitors gained increasing traction in the sports car segment. This 1991 example promises a “like-new” Bright Red exterior that’s all original. No doubt, this condition is helped with less than 36,000 miles on the clock. But what’s also special is that this Camaro has the 1LE factory performance package. This option stripped out heavy gear like air conditioning and upgraded the suspension and brakes.
Powering this Camaro is the notable L98 5.7-liter (350 cubic inches) small-block V-8 that was factory rated for 230 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. The seller reports the engine to be an unmodified original. A four-speed manual handles rear-wheel power.
The Camaro’s exterior is matched by a pristine cabin featuring grey fabric upholstery. There’s no word on interior equipment other than the original audio system and an aftermarket speaker in the cargo area.
1990 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA
While Chevy took a less-is-more approach with the 1LE option, Pontiac went in the opposite direction with the GTA variant. The GTA was the top-of-the-line Firebird that included gold, alloys, a special paint treatment, and a more compliant suspension. Like its Auction Dilemma counterpart, this Pontiac benefits from low use (22,000 miles). The seller does report some blemishes on the Medium Maroon Metallic exterior and the wheels.
We again see the use of the L98 small-block, but it’s been returned (when new) for 235 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque (a substantial torque boost over the Chevy). A four-speed automatic transmission manages the rear wheels.
Minus some creases on the grey leather upholstery, the cabin appears crisp and clean. Interior features include dual power front seats, air conditioning, cruise control, and the original Delco audio system.
GM F-Bodies: A Simpler Kind of Performance
As the Firebird is no more and the Camaro may be heading in the same direction, these cars are performance opportunities that don't involve kilowatts or battery packs. The 1985 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 has a $25,850 asking price. Bidding, which ends in four days, on the 1990 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am has reached $8,000 as of this writing.
Sources: Hemmings, Cars & Bids, gmauthority.com