[blindeyed]

Ok, I've been trying to figure this out for a while now. From what I've learned, the F-Body's and other rear wheel drive cars from GM have one single camshaft and a pushrod system set up for the valves. I've also learned that most front wheel drive GM vehicles come with DOHC.

I understand that in a pushrod engine, the camshaft actuates long rods that go up through the block and into the head to move the rockers. And that the long rods add mass to the system, which increases the load on the valve springs. Which in turn, can limit the speed of pushrod engines.

Now, if DOHC eliminates this problem, and can achieve higher speeds and create more HP, then why didn't rear wheel drive vehicles come with this valve setup instead?

The main reason why I ask, is because my friend has a 1995 Monte Carlo. A front wheel drive vehicle, with a DOHC 3.4L V6. Now I have a 1995 Firebird with a 3.4L V6 with the single camshaft and pushrods. My engine creates around 160 HP as to his engine creating around 200 HP. I attempted to race him, thinking I would stand a chance, and he creamed me.. Now, if DOHC engines create more HP, and from what I'm assuming, create more torque as well. Then why didn't GM put them in the Firebirds as well?

This may seem like a stupid question to most of you, but I'm still learning about engines, and this question has puzzled me for a while now. If I am incorrect about anything I mentioned above, then please feel free to correct me. I appreciate any responses regarding this.